2010 Tennessee Code
Title 39 - Criminal Offenses
Chapter 11 - General Provisions
Part 2 - Burden of Proof
39-11-201 - Burden of proof.

39-11-201. Burden of proof.

(a)  No person may be convicted of an offense unless each of the following is proven beyond a reasonable doubt:

     (1)  The conduct, circumstances surrounding the conduct, or a result of the conduct described in the definition of the offense;

     (2)  The culpable mental state required;

     (3)  The negation of any defense to an offense defined in this title if admissible evidence is introduced supporting the defense; and

     (4)  The offense was committed prior to the return of the formal charge.

(b)  In the absence of the proof required by subsection (a), the innocence of the person is presumed.

(c)  A person charged with an offense has no burden to prove innocence.

(d)  Evidence produced at trial, whether presented on direct or cross-examination of state or defense witnesses, may be utilized by either party.

(e)  No person may be convicted of an offense unless venue is proven by a preponderance of the evidence.

(f)  If the issue is raised in defense, no person shall be convicted of an offense unless jurisdiction and the commission of the offense within the time period specified in title 40, chapter 2 are proven by a preponderance of the evidence.

[Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 1; 1990, ch. 1030, § 3.]