If you’re at all familiar with the United States legal system, even if you’ve only watched television courtroom dramas, you’ve most likely heard the phrase, “reasonable doubt;” specifically that juries can only convict if they believe the defendant is guilty “beyond a reasonable doubt.” But what does that actually mean? Our criminal defense lawyers in Raleigh are explaining what this concept is and why it is such a cornerstone of our justice system.
All Accused Are Innocent Until Proven Guilty
First, it’s important to understand that in the criminal justice system, the accused is innocent until proven guilty. This means that it is not the defense attorney’s role to prove their client is innocent, though they can if they have the evidence to do so. Instead, it is the prosecutor’s role to prove that the defendant is guilty. This is to prevent wrongful convictions, as the court finds it preferable to allow a guilty person to go free rather than let an innocent person be wrongfully imprisoned or receive the death penalty in capital cases.
Satisfying the Burden of Proof
During the trial, the prosecution is responsible for bearing the burden of proof, meaning they must provide evidence to the jury that the accused is guilty of the crime. The burden of proof is divided into two categories.
- Burden of production: This means the prosecution must present sufficient evidence to support their accusation and their case.
- Burden of persuasion: This refers to the obligation the prosecutor has presented enough evidence to pursuade the jury beyond a reasonable doubt of the defendant’s guilt.
What Does Reasonable Doubt Mean?
Now that the foundation of the prosecutor’s role is established, it’s easier to understand what it means when the jury can only convict if the prosecution has proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty. When a jury finds someone guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, it means there is no other logical explanation that can be derived from the evidence presented during the trial by the prosecution.
It’s important to note that this does not mean that the jury must be 100 percent certain of the defendant’s guilt, though they must be virtually certain of their guilt in order to return a guilty verdict.
The Role of the Defense Attorney
In court, the prosecution’s role is to prove the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, the defense attorney must fight back against the allegations by gathering evidence, gaining witness statements, and analyzing depositions and testimony. Basically, their role is to do everything possible to cast doubt on the evidence presented by the prosecution, whether that is by witness testimony, establishing an alibi, or consulting with experts related to the crime.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Defense Attorney in Raleigh Today
If you are accused of a crime, you need a strong, experienced defense attorney in Raleigh on your side who will work to clear your name. To schedule a free consultation or speak with an attorney 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reach out to us at (919) 845-6688 or fill out the form below to get started.