get the benefit of the doubt

To be viewed in a favorable or neutral way when all information is not yet available, rather than being judged or criticized preemptively. You're my sister! Can't I get the benefit of the doubt, instead of you believing the worst about me? OK, you've got the benefit of the doubt, since we know there's probably a good explanation for all this. I know the evidence is troubling, but Tom's my oldest friend. He gets the benefit of the doubt until the police tell me otherwise.