But in the absence of eye-witness there's always a doubt…
““But in the absence of eye-witness there's always a doubt, sometimes only the shadow of a doubt. The law says 'reasonable doubt', but I think a defendant's entitled to the shadow of doubt. There's always the possibility, no matter how improbable, that he's innocent.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Legal decisions rely on “reasonable doubt,” yet the lingering uncertainty—“shadow of doubt”—means a defendant may still be innocent despite low probability.
In simple terms: Legal doubt leaves room for possible innocence.
Key Takeaway
Never ignore the possibility of innocence.
Themes
law
justice
uncertainty
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
legal
ethical
When to use this quote
- court trials
- jury deliberations
- criminal investigations
Key Concepts
reasonable doubt
probability
innocence
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards could reduce wrongful convictions?
- How does doubt affect jury decisions?
A Different Perspective
The standard may not fully protect against wrongful conviction.