justification

The act of justifying.

The condition or fact of being justified.

Something, such as a fact or circumstance, that justifies: synonym: apology.

The act of justifying, or of showing something to be just or right; proof of fairness, propriety, or right intention; vindication; exculpation; upholding.

Specifically In law: The showing of a sufficient reason in court why a defendant did what he is called to answer.