Presumption of Innocence: A Fundamental Principle of Criminal Justice
Overview
The presumption of innocence, also known as Präsumtion der Unschuld in German, is a cornerstone of a fair and just criminal justice system. It is a fundamental principle that states that:
Key Principles
The presumption of innocence encompasses the following key principles:
- An individual accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
- The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, not the accused.
- The accused has the right to remain silent and to cross-examine witnesses.
- The accused is entitled to a fair trial and the assistance of competent legal counsel.
The presumption of innocence ensures that individuals are not unjustly convicted or punished for crimes they did not commit. It is a vital safeguard against arbitrary or oppressive prosecution.
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