Define: Presumption Of Innocence

Presumption Of Innocence
Presumption Of Innocence
Quick Summary of Presumption Of Innocence

One of the most sacred principles in the American criminal justice system, holding that a defendant is innocent until proven guilty. In other words, the prosecution must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, each element of the crime charged.

What is the dictionary definition of Presumption Of Innocence?
Dictionary Definition of Presumption Of Innocence
n. a fundamental protection for a person accused of a crime, which requires the prosecution to prove its case against the defendant beyond a reasonable doubt. This is opposite from the criminal law in many countries, where the accused is considered guilty until he/ she proves his/her innocence or the government completely fails to prove its case.
Full Definition Of Presumption Of Innocence

It is a long-standing principle of English criminal law that a defendant is “innocent until proven guilty”. That is, it is the job of the state (technically the Crown) to prove all the facts of the case against the defendant. The presumption of innocence has two facets. First, in that, the burden of proof falls on the prosecution. It must prove guilt; it is not for the defendant to prove his innocence. Second, the standard of proof is ‘beyond reasonable doubt.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.

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