The Burden of Proof

The burden of proof refers to the obligation of a party to provide sufficient evidence to support their claim or defense in a legal case. It determines who must prove what in court. For example, in a criminal case, the prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In a civil case, the plaintiff must demonstrate their claim by a preponderance of the evidence. Essentially, it ensures that the party making a claim bears the responsibility to convince the court of its validity. The burden can shift during a case, depending on the circumstances and legal standards involved.