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

But the bill provides a lower burden of proof than is generally required for infractions or other violations that follow infraction procedures. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 30 Apr. 2025

Last week, a judge ruled that the government met the burden of proof to deport Khalil. —Rachel Wolf, FOXNews.com, 15 Apr. 2025

The judge said the Department of Homeland Security met its burden of proof. —Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 11 Apr. 2025

In the lawsuit, the Park District failed to meet the burden of proof required for the court to affirm the Lansing Journal infringed on its trademark, Seeger’s decision said. —Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 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.