Some people I've met today claimed that the French criminal system considers suspects to be 'guilthy until proven innocent'. I've never heard of this, does anyone here know more?

I did a quick perusal and could not find the exact answer to your question. However, I did get a good site for you to begin your research with, which indicates French criminal law would be largely driven by its criminal code:
http://www.llrx.com/features/frenchlaw.htm

The following link is the US State Dept's human rights watch review concerning France. The biggest problem with its legal system seems to be the time delay in bringing cases to trial. No mention of the presumption of innocence:
http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2001/eur/8253.htm

Thanks Timber. I'll check it out tonight [img]smile.gif[/img]

Yeah - I can help you by asking the French lady friend I am currently talking to on MSN.

I can assure you that the premise is false (see - wasn't that good of me - I avoided the use of the word "crap") and that their justice system is based on the presumption of innocence.

Look here for more information about the French judicial system. It is the official site of the French justice department.

Thanks for the information. Don't get the wrong idea, I never really bought this in the first place. But it was worth investigating [img]smile.gif[/img]