Okuzeka
Criminal Law & Justice vocabulary · Trial & Verdict

Beyond reasonable doubt

Meaning in criminal law & justice, with examples

phraseCore term

In criminal law & justice, beyond reasonable doubt means: The standard of proof in criminal cases: the evidence must be so strong that no reasonable person would doubt the defendant's guilt.

In Turkish: makul şüphenin ötesinde, her türlü makul şüpheden uzak biçimde

How it is used

Judges tell juries that the prosecution must prove its case 'beyond reasonable doubt' (British) or 'beyond a reasonable doubt' (American). Courts in England and Wales now often explain it as being 'sure' of guilt. It is much higher than the civil standard, 'on the balance of probabilities'.

Example sentences

  1. The prosecution must prove every element of the offence beyond reasonable doubt.

  2. The jury was not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt, so it acquitted him.

Common collocations

  • prove beyond reasonable doubt
  • beyond a reasonable doubt
  • standard of proof
  • reasonable doubt
  • burden of proofThe duty to prove that a claim is true; in criminal cases it lies on the prosecution, not on the defendant.
  • presumption of innocenceThe basic principle that every person accused of a crime must be treated as innocent until the prosecution proves their guilt in court.
  • verdictThe decision at the end of a trial on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty, especially the decision of a jury.
  • acquitTo decide officially in court that a person is not guilty of the crime they were charged with.
  • juryA group of ordinary citizens, usually twelve in serious criminal cases, who listen to the evidence at a trial and decide whether the defendant is guilty.

More terms: Trial & Verdict

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not legal advice.