The reality is that there is not a meaning difference between a not guilty verdict and an acquittal. An acquittal occurs at trial when the judge or jury determines the defendant is not guilty due to the prosecution failing to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. A judge or jury might issue a partial acquittal when they find the defendant guilty of some but not all charges. Other ways to get an acquittal include the prosecution having insufficient evidence. The prosecution can appeal the judgment, but they cannot appeal a not guilty verdict from a jury.