Why is the burden of proof placed on the prosecution in criminal cases?

The burden of proof is placed on the prosecution in criminal cases primarily to uphold the presumption of innocence. This fundamental principle means that any defendant is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. By placing the responsibility on the prosecution to provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the legal system is designed to protect individuals from wrongful convictions. This safeguard reinforces the idea that it is better for several guilty individuals to go free than to wrongfully convict an innocent one.

This principle is a cornerstone of the American legal system and underlines the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms within the criminal justice process. Recognizing this fundamental aspect of legal proceedings contributes to the integrity of the judicial system and aims to maintain public confidence in legal outcomes.