The presumption of innocence is a legal principle that ensures a person accused of a crime is considered innocent until proven guilty. This means that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, which must provide sufficient evidence to establish the accused's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This principle is fundamental to fair trials and protects individuals from wrongful conviction. This concept is a cornerstone of many legal systems, including those in the United States and European countries. It helps maintain public confidence in the justice system by ensuring that everyone receives a fair hearing and that accusations alone do not determine a person's guilt.