What does the presumption of innocence mean?

• A. Accused is guilty until proven innocent
• B. Accused is innocent until proven guilty
• C. Accused is assumed to be innocent only in trials
• D. Accused's intent is presumed

Answer: (B)

Presumption of innocence means the accused is treated as not having committed the crime until proven guilty. In practice, the state bears the burden of proof and must show guilt beyond reasonable doubt through a fair process, not the other way around. This safeguard applies beyond just what happens in court, guiding how investigations and proceedings proceed and protecting individuals from punishment without convincing evidence. It is about proving fault, not about assuming anything about the person’s intentions.

That’s why the best description is that the accused is innocent until proven guilty. It’s the opposite of being guilty until proven innocent, and it isn’t limited only to trials, nor does it involve presuming the person’s intent.