give somebody the benefit of the doubt

give (someone or something) the benefit of the doubt

To retain a favorable or at least neutral opinion of someone or something until the full information about the subject is available. You're my sister! Can't you give me the benefit of the doubt, instead of believing the worst about me right away? Let's give him the benefit of the doubt before we start accusing him. There may be a good explanation for the missing money.
See also: benefit, doubt, give, of
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

give somebody the ˌbenefit of the ˈdoubt

accept that a person is right or innocent because you cannot prove that they are not: She said she was late because of the traffic and I gave her the benefit of the doubt.
See also: benefit, doubt, give, of, somebody
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • benefit of the doubt
  • the benefit of the doubt
  • an/the advantage over (someone or something)
  • benefit of the doubt, to give/have the
  • an/the edge on (someone or something)
  • an/the edge over (someone or something)
  • put a spin on
  • put a spin on (something)
  • well disposed to
  • well disposed to (someone or something)