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

There’s a lower level of proof for a preliminary hearing — not the same burden of proof that’s needed during a trial, which requires that the jury believe the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. —Alex Brizee march 3, Idaho Statesman, 4 Mar. 2026

Some adoptees hope to use the commission’s findings to file damages suits against the South Korean government or their adoption agencies, which would otherwise be difficult because South Korean law places the burden of proof entirely on plaintiffs in civil cases. —ABC News, 25 Feb. 2026

Defense attorneys argued the family's lawyers failed to meet the burden of proof that guns were pointed. —Dave Savini, CBS News, 25 Feb. 2026

But even without proof, the only truth the authorities recognize stems from unfounded accusations, and Enzo is soon embroiled in a scandal where the burden of proof is reversed. —Ben Travers, IndieWire, 20 Feb. 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.