The supreme value of a democratic society are humans, their rights and freedoms. Recognition, respect and protection of these rights and freedoms is the fundamental obligation of the state. The criminal trial represents that field of activity where the need to protect human rights and freedoms is constantly current. By virtue of this fact, the study of the means and levers by which the accomplishment of this constitutional obligation by the state is ensured is of substantial importance. The presumption of innocence, regulated in the criminal procedure legislation, is also attributed to these means. Proper regulation, interpretation, perception and use of the presumption of innocence will contribute to raising the degree of legal protection of citizens' rights and freedoms, including in criminal proceedings. The presented study is important not only from a theoretical point of view, but also for the improvement of the criminal procedure legislation, for the efficiency of the activity of application of the legal norms.