"Not Guilty" is a legal term used in court to indicate that a defendant has been found innocent of the charges against them. This verdict means that the evidence presented was not sufficient to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In criminal cases, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and if they fail to meet this standard, the jury or judge must declare the defendant "Not Guilty." When a person is declared "Not Guilty," it does not necessarily mean they are innocent; it simply means that the legal system did not find enough evidence to convict them. This outcome can occur in various cases, including those involving theft, assault, or even more serious crimes like murder. The presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle in the justice system, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly until proven guilty.