Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

burden-of-proof

Noun
/ˈbɜːr.dən əv pruːf/
Definition
The obligation to prove one’s assertion or claim in a legal context.
Examples
  • The burden of proof lies with the prosecution in a criminal case.
  • In civil cases, the plaintiff typically has the burden of proof.
  • The lawyer argued that the burden of proof had not been met.
Meaning
In legal proceedings, it refers to the duty of a party to convince the court of their argument’s validity.
Synonyms
  • onus of proof
  • onus
  • liability to prove