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

Tsigler notes that under US law, the burden of proof lies with the government, not only to demonstrate guilt but also to prove that the evidence and the science behind it are reliable. —Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 23 Nov. 2025

This is still a fragile market, and the burden of proof is on the bulls. —Alia Shoaib, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2025

But in practice, stand your ground laws have blurred the line between self-defense and aggression by expanding legal immunity for some who claim self-defense and shifting the burden of proof to prosecutors. —Caroline Light, The Conversation, 17 Nov. 2025

The burden of proof is lower in municipal court. —Drake Bentley, jsonline.com, 5 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1705, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for burden of proof

• aloof
• behoof
• disproof
• flameproof
• foolproof
• greaseproof
• leakproof
• reproof
• soundproof
• bulletproof
• fireproof
• waterproof

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.