Which legal principle is foundational in maintaining judicial integrity and fair proceedings in Hong Kong?

The principle of "Innocent until proven guilty" is foundational in maintaining judicial integrity and fair proceedings in Hong Kong as it embodies the concept of presumption of innocence, a fundamental tenet of criminal law and human rights. This principle ensures that individuals are treated as not having committed a crime until sufficient evidence is presented to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This safeguards individuals from wrongful punishment and upholds the fairness of the judicial process, allowing the court to operate impartially and based on credible evidence.

The presumption of innocence contributes to the overall integrity of the judicial system, fostering public confidence in its ability to dispense justice fairly. It is an essential part of the legal framework that protects the rights of defendants and ensures that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. As such, this principle is critical to ensuring that justice is properly administered and that the rights of individuals are preserved throughout legal proceedings.

In contrast, while concepts like "Justice delayed is justice denied," "Right to a speedy trial," and "Equality before the law" are important elements of a just legal system, they do not specifically address the foundational requirement for ensuring that a person is presumed innocent until proven otherwise, which is central to maintaining fair trial standards and judicial integrity.