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

The bill further stacks the legal deck by putting the burden of proof on the state in court, and by ordering judges to review that proof under the strict scrutiny standard, the most stringent bar in constitutional law. — Andrew Graham july 8, Sacbee.com, 8 July 2026

But unlike an actual trial, there is a lower burden of proof. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2026

The relatively recent ecosystem-level change, however, is the burden of proof for humanoid makers. — John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

The judge said the charge to the jury — instructions on the charges, legal questions to answer and burden of proof needed to reach a verdict — will be long and will be given Tuesday morning. — Suzanne Gamboa, NBC news, 8 June 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.