~1min read
04related terms
May 2026reviewed
In detail
How presumption of innocence works in practice.
The presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of the Victorian criminal justice system and Australian law generally. Every person charged with a criminal offence is presumed innocent until the prosecution proves each element of the charge beyond reasonable doubt. The presumption means the accused is not required to prove anything. It also means that prior charges that did not result in convictions cannot be treated as evidence of bad character without specific legal basis. The presumption applies throughout the proceedings, from charge to verdict.
§Browse glossary
