مجلة القانون والعلوم السياسية
Volume 10, Numéro 1, Pages 210-222
2024-01-27

The Presumption Of Innocence And Burdens Of Proof In Algerian Criminal Law

Authors : Hattab Abdenour .

Abstract

Presuming innocence is a fundamental principle for the accused. Committing a crime departs from this, yet the presumption holds until final conviction. Legal rules, including the 2020 constitutional amendment and Criminal Procedure Code, explicitly establish it for a fair trial, a standard for legitimacy. While affecting criminal case proceedings, it predominantly shapes the burden of the proof system. Its primary aim is to respect the accused's innocence. The prosecution, representing society, enforces authority and bears the proof burden, per justice requirements, except specified by law. In doubt, the trier of fact leans toward acquittal.

Keywords

Presumption of innocence, ; burden of proof ; constitutional legitimacy ; public prosecution ; evidence ; benefit of doubt in favor of the accused.