What is the purpose of the 'beyond reasonable doubt' standard?

The purpose of the 'beyond reasonable doubt' standard is to ensure a high level of certainty of guilt in criminal cases. This standard is the highest level of proof required in the legal system, primarily used in criminal trials to protect individuals from wrongful convictions. It reflects the principle that it is better for the guilty to go free than for an innocent person to be convicted.

In criminal cases, the prosecution must present sufficient evidence such that any reasonable person would have no doubt about the accused's guilt. This level of certainty is necessary because a conviction can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment.

Other standards, such as "preponderance of evidence," apply in civil cases and do not require such a high threshold of certainty; they are therefore not relevant to the 'beyond reasonable doubt' standard.