Who has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt?

The prosecution holds the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a criminal trial. This principle is a fundamental aspect of the criminal justice system, ensuring that the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution is responsible for presenting evidence and making arguments to convince the jury (or judge in a bench trial) of the defendant's guilt to the highest standard of proof, which is beyond a reasonable doubt. This high standard reflects the serious consequences of a criminal conviction, including potential loss of freedom, and is designed to protect individuals from wrongful convictions.

In contrast, the defense does not have to prove the defendant's innocence or establish any degree of doubt regarding the prosecution's case; rather, their role is to challenge the prosecution's evidence and arguments. The judge facilitates the trial process and ensures fairness but does not carry the burden of proof themselves. Similarly, an officer of the court, while playing a role in maintaining the integrity of the legal process, does not hold the burden of proving the case against the defendant.