How can an alleged would-be murderer be declared innocent until proven guilty, even with overwhelming evidence? What does the Constitution say about the presumption of innocence?
Although you may not find the phrase “innocent until proven guilty” directly quoted in the U.S. Constitution, the principle forms the backbone of our justice system and is affirmed in the Fifth, Sixth, and Fourteenth Amendments.
Building upon these constitutional foundations, you don’t have to testify against yourself when accused of a crime. Our Founders did not want you to help the government build a case against you.
In addition, you have the right to a speedy and public trial. No hidden agendas. We the People must know that, if we are accused, public trials, not postponed for decades, show the prosecution’s evidence against the defendant in as reasonably quick a manner as possible.
Furthermore, neither federal, state, nor local governments can deprive you of your life, liberty, or property without due process of law. That due process includes your presumption of innocence unless the prosecution can prove otherwise.
All of these are fundamental rights that American citizens have in a criminal trial.
Stay informed and understand your rights!
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
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Additional sources:
https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/constitution-transcript.
https://uslawexplained.com/innocent_until_proven_guilty#google_vignette
