A wrong is not presumed.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) The law does not presume wrongdoing — in the absence of evidence, every man's conduct is presumed to be lawful and honest.

Where this applies

• When a contract is properly signed by both parties, the court assumes it was executed lawfully and does not presume fraud unless evidence is presented.
• A will that appears valid on its face is not presumed to have been forged — the person challenging it must prove the forgery.
• A business transaction completed between two adults is presumed to be honest until someone provides evidence of wrongdoing.