What is referred to by the "burden of proof" in criminal cases?

The "burden of proof" in criminal cases specifically refers to the obligation of the prosecution to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This fundamental principle ensures that in a legal system, an individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution carries the burden of presenting sufficient evidence to convince the judge or jury of the defendant's guilt to a high level of certainty, as outlined by this standard.

This concept is crucial in upholding the rights of defendants within the judicial system, as it prevents wrongful convictions and emphasizes the importance of evidence in proving criminal charges. The requirement reflects the notion that it is better for a guilty person to go free than for an innocent person to be wrongly convicted.

In contrast, options that suggest the defendant has the responsibility to prove innocence or that refer to evaluating witness credibility do not align with the established legal standards surrounding the burden of proof in criminal proceedings. Similarly, the legal requirement for evidence before a trial begins pertains to procedural rules rather than the burden of proof itself. Therefore, the correct understanding of "burden of proof" focuses solely on the prosecution's obligation in the context of a criminal case.