Legal Standard of Proof
/ˈliːɡəl ˈstændərd əv pruf/
Definitions
- (n.) The level of certainty and the burden of evidence required to establish proof in a legal proceeding.
The prosecution met the legal standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
- (n.) A criterion used by courts to determine whether facts have been sufficiently proven to decide a case.
Different legal standards of proof apply in civil and criminal trials.
Forms
- legal standard of proof
- legal standards of proof
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Legal standards of proof vary by jurisdiction and type of case; careful selection in drafting clarifies the required threshold for evidence.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.