Legal Dictionary
Main Entry:
standard of proof : the level of certainty and the degree of evidence necessary to establish proof in a criminal or civil proceeding
standard of proof to convict is proof beyond a reasonable doubt> —see also CLEAR AND CONVINCING, PREPONDERANCE OF THE EVIDENCE —compare BURDEN OF PROOF clear and convincing evidence at EVIDENCE, REASONABLE DOUBT
NOTE: Preponderance of the evidence is the least demanding standard of proof and is used for most civil actions and some criminal defenses (as insanity). Clear and convincing proof is a more demanding standard of proof and is used in certain civil actions (as a civil fraud suit). Proof beyond a reasonable doubt is the most demanding standard and the one that must be met for a criminal conviction.
