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

In this scenario, auditors would independently verify every calculation, effectively shifting the burden of proof back onto themselves to ensure that the AI performed correctly. —Mike Whitmire, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

Moreover, litigating on behalf of a natural entity greatly diminishes the burden of proof, for one need not prove a human was harmed, only that the specific part of nature at hand was harmed. —India Nye Wenner, Rolling Stone, 22 Apr. 2025

At a deportation hearing, the government has a lower burden of proof and the defendant does not have the right to a jury trial, for example. —Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 20 Apr. 2025

This reframing places the burden of proof on employees rather than technology. —Roger Dooley, Forbes.com, 8 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.