What is the burden of proof in criminal trials?

The burden of proof in criminal trials refers to the obligation that the prosecution carries to prove the guilt of the defendant. This concept is foundational in the criminal justice system, as it is established that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution must present enough evidence to convince the jury of the defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." This high standard is designed to protect individuals from wrongful convictions and reflects the principle that it is better for many guilty individuals to go free than for one innocent person to be wrongly convicted.

The focus on this obligation underscores the prosecution's responsibility in building a compelling case and ensuring that all elements of the crime are sufficiently proven to meet the required legal standard. This framework highlights the importance of evidence and the role of the jury in assessing the information presented during the trial.