Which statement best describes the presumption of innocence in criminal proceedings?

• A. The defendant is presumed guilty until proven innocent.
• B. Everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
• C. The burden of proof lies on the defendant.
• D. Presumption of innocence applies only in some cases.

Answer: (B)

The presumption of innocence means a person charged with a crime starts trial as not guilty, and the state must prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt. This places the burden of proof on the prosecution and protects the defendant from automatic punishment. Because of this, the best description is that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The other statements conflict with this principle: assuming guilt before proof, placing the burden on the defendant, or saying it only applies in some cases all misstate how this safeguard works in criminal proceedings.