What is often assumed about a person's legal status when they have been arrested?

The concept of "innocent until proven guilty" is a fundamental principle of the legal system, particularly in criminal law. This principle operates under the assumption that a person who has been arrested has not yet been adjudicated in a court of law. The presumption of innocence is designed to protect individuals from wrongful conviction and ensures that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. It reinforces the idea that a person should be treated as free of guilt until sufficient evidence is provided to substantiate the charges against them. This concept is vital for maintaining justice and fairness within the legal process, ensuring that legal proceedings are conducted objectively and fairly.

While the other options may highlight aspects of the legal process—such as the necessity of trial or the possibility of release without charges—they do not encapsulate the overarching principle that governs how individuals are treated in the eyes of the law after an arrest. The presumption of innocence is what influences the legal proceedings and the rights of the accused.