burden of proof

noun phrase

: the duty of proving a disputed assertion or charge

Examples of burden of proof in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

To Schilling, Hill, and their colleagues, this means that although predictive deep learning programs have their uses, the burden of proof needs to be much more rigorous when using them in situations such as medical research. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 13 Dec. 2024

Will there come a time when the burden of proof for miracles grows so great the church stops requiring them to expand its pantheon of saints? —Longreads, 6 Dec. 2024

Social Security numbers are typically given only to noncitizens who are authorized to work in the U.S. At PolitiFact, the burden of proof is on the speaker. —Madison Czopek, Austin American-Statesman, 23 Aug. 2024

Plaintiffs generally face a higher burden of proof in federal court for fraud claims. —Kristian Burt, CNBC, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

burden of proof

: the responsibility of producing sufficient evidence in support of a fact or issue and favorably persuading the trier of fact (as a judge or jury) regarding that fact or issue

the burden of proof is sometimes upon the defendant to show his incompetency

—W. R. LaFave and A. W. Scott, Jr.

compare standard of proof

Note: The legal concept of the burden of proof encompasses both the burdens of production and persuasion. Burden of proof is often used to refer to one or the other. Burden of proof and burden of persuasion are also sometimes used to refer to the standard of proof.