Burden of Proof

The burden of proof is what a party must demonstrate to prevail in a case.

For example, the burden of proof in a criminal case is on the prosecutor. The prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty of the crime. If the jury agrees that the prosecutor met the burden of proof they will find the defendant guilty.

In a civil case, the burden of proof is usually on the plaintiff to prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence. That is, if the jury believes that it more likely that the defendant is liable than not liable, the plaintiff has met their burden of proof.