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 burden of proof for the defense is lower than the standard prosecutors are required to prove for a guilty verdict. —Sean Emery, Oc Register, 14 Apr. 2026

Indictments have a lower burden of proof and require only probable cause, while a trial would require prosecutors to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that each defendant is culpable. —Jason Henry, Daily News, 9 Apr. 2026

The process cannot be completed administratively and must proceed through litigation in federal court, where a judge determines whether the government has met its burden of proof. —Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026

As indexes go down, the burden of proof on the bulls goes up, even as the risk-reward equation for very long-term investors improves. —Michael Santoli, CNBC, 30 Mar. 2026

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.