What is the legal status of a pre-trial prisoner?

A pre-trial prisoner is considered innocent until proven guilty, reflecting a fundamental principle of the legal system known as the presumption of innocence. This principle ensures that individuals accused of a crime are treated as though they are innocent throughout the duration of their trial unless a jury or judge finds them guilty. The legal standard that requires the prosecution to prove the accused person's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt reinforces this notion.

This status not only protects the rights of the individual but also serves to uphold the integrity of the judicial process. If someone is arrested and held before trial, their legal status remains innocent until a verdict is reached or a guilty plea is entered, ensuring that they have the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges brought against them.