In re Winship

In re Winship is a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case from 1970 that established the standard of proof in juvenile court proceedings. The Court ruled that the government must prove a juvenile's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt" before they can be convicted of a crime, similar to adult criminal cases. This decision emphasized the importance of a high standard of evidence to protect the rights of young people, recognizing that a conviction can profoundly impact their future. By ensuring a fair legal standard, the ruling helps to safeguard justice in the juvenile justice system.