preponderance of the evidence
A requirement that more then 50% of the evidence points to something. This is the burden of proof in a civil trial.
For example: At the end of civil case A v. B, 51% of the evidence favors A. Thus, A has a preponderance of the evidence, A has met their burden of proof, and A will win the case.
Definition from Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary
The burden of proof required in a civil (non-criminal) action to convince the court that a given proposition is true. The plaintiff must convince the judge or jury by a preponderance of the evidence that the plaintiff's version is true -- that is, over 50% of the believable evidence is in the plaintiff's favor. Compare: reasonable doubt
Definition provided by Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary.
August 19, 2010, 5:22 pm
