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

With a two-year statute of limitations and a complex burden of proof, waiting too long can negatively affect your options. —Miami Herald, 12 May 2026

Johnson said after Miller’s plea hearing that Missouri’s self-defense law imposes a burden of proof that was too high for her office to secure a murder conviction. —Ben Wheeler updated May 10, Kansas City Star, 10 May 2026

The burden of proof is with the account holder. —Elliot Raphaelson, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2026

In a rare twist in criminal proceedings, in this scenario the burden of proof was on the defense rather than the prosecution. —Sean Emery, Oc Register, 7 May 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.