standard of proof proof beyond a shadow of a doubt

Simpson case is a good example of how these two standards of proof differ from one another. Simpson’s Criminal Case vs. Civil Lawsuit The preponderance of the evidence standard of proof (AKA balance of probabilities) is essentially met if there is greater than 50% chance that the plaintiff’s claims are true. Instead of proving your case beyond any reasonable doubt, the plaintiff must only show that their proposition is more likely to be true than not true.

Preponderance of the EvidenceĬivil cases, on the other hand, are not as difficult to prove in court. The reason for this high burden of proof can be partially explained by Blackstone’s formulation, which states that “it is better that ten guilty persons escape than that one innocent suffer.” The consequences of a wrongful conviction are extremely serious, and for that reason, the courts must err on the side of innocence. While there can still be doubt in the mind of a juror, this doubt “must not affect a reasonable person’s belief regarding whether or not the defendant is guilty.” The plaintiff in a criminal case (also known as the prosecutor, state or government) must produce evidence to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant (accused) committed the crime for which they are being charged.Įssentially, this means that the case must be proven to an extent that no “reasonable person” could “reasonably doubt” the defendant’s guilt. In a criminal case, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. That said, it’s not exactly clear to the average American what these two terms actually mean or how they differ. While prosecutors in criminal trials must prove that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, plaintiffs in civil trials must only prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence.

The burden of proof in any case lies with the plaintiff (person or entity bringing the claim) as opposed to the defendant. That said, evidence is always the key factor in deciding a case. personal injury lawsuits) vary greatly in many respects. While most are familiar with the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard used in criminal cases, civil lawsuits use a different standard called “preponderance of the evidence.”Ĭriminal cases and civil cases (e.g. Burden of proof is a legal construct which states that one must provide enough relevant evidence supporting their claim or argument in order for a judge or jury to rule in their favor.

Standard of proof proof beyond a shadow of a doubt