legal standard

A legal standard is a level of proof or criteria that must be met to establish whether a statement of fact, legal obligation, or defense is valid in a court of law. It helps determine the outcome of a case by setting the threshold that evidence or arguments must reach. For example, "beyond a reasonable doubt" is a high standard used in criminal cases, meaning the evidence must leave almost no doubt of guilt. Different situations require different standards, which guide judges and juries in making fair, consistent decisions based on the evidence presented.