presumption of innocence

American  

noun

Law.

1. the rebuttable presumption of the innocence of the defendant in a criminal action in Anglo-Saxon jurisprudence, placing upon the prosecution the burden of proof of the defendant's guilt.

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Example Sentences

Let’s ensure this presumption of innocence means something in practice if you, or your loved one, need it.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

“The former defendants in this case, like any other defendant in this situation, still enjoy the presumption of innocence held sacrosanct in our constitutional order,” the judge writes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 23, 2026

Zornoza has "temporarily suspended" all engagements "to clarify the facts and to follow his treatment for an aggressive cancer," the statement said, calling for respect for "the presumption of innocence".

From Barron's • Nov. 11, 2025

During a Monday court hearing, Judge Graf acknowledged massive interest in the case and urged that Robinson's "presumption of innocence remains".

From BBC • Oct. 27, 2025

But, let me say, the presumption of innocence is not evidence in the case, and when you hear of that presumption all the way through this case understand that it is not evidence.

From The Crime of the Century or, The Assassination of Dr. Patrick Henry Cronin by Hunt, Henry M.