What are the implications of a "not guilty" verdict?

A "not guilty" verdict carries significant implications in the legal system, primarily indicating that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof. This standard, known as "beyond a reasonable doubt," is a fundamental principle in criminal trials. It requires the jury to be convinced of the defendant's guilt to a high degree of certainty before rendering a guilty verdict. Therefore, a "not guilty" outcome signals that the evidence presented by the prosecution did not sufficiently establish the defendant's guilt to that rigorous standard.

While being found "not guilty" does not equate to a formal declaration of innocence (as outlined in the first choice), it does reflect the jury's conclusion that reasonable doubt exists regarding the prosecution's case. This is critical in maintaining the principle of protecting individuals from wrongful conviction. Additionally, the trial does not automatically require retrial, as that would depend on specific circumstances such as legal errors or hung juries, not simply the verdict itself.

Thus, choice C accurately captures the essence of what a "not guilty" verdict signifies within the judicial process.