According to American jurisprudence, respondents to a complaint:

In American jurisprudence, the principle of "innocent until proven guilty" is a fundamental tenet. This principle establishes that respondents to a complaint are presumed innocent until sufficient evidence is presented to demonstrate their violation of the established rules or codes, such as the Code of Ethics in real estate practices. This means that the burden of proof lies with the accuser to prove their allegations rather than requiring the respondent to prove their innocence.

In the context of real estate, this is particularly important as it ensures that respondents have the opportunity to present their side of the story and defend themselves against any accusations. The fairness of this legal framework is integral to maintaining justice and preventing wrongful penalties.

Understanding this framework helps real estate professionals navigate ethical complaints and disciplinary actions in a manner aligned with legal standards, ensuring that due process is followed.