Which term means the party has to prove that the allegation is more likely to be true than not?

• A. Burden of Proof
• B. Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
• C. Preponderance of Evidence
• D. Clear and Convincing Evidence

Answer: (C)

Preponderance of the evidence means the party must show that the claim is more likely true than not. In practical terms, the evidence must tip the scales in favor of the claim, meaning a likelihood greater than 50%. This is the standard used in most civil cases, where the plaintiff bears the burden to prove the claim by that tipping point. It is lower than the criminal standard of beyond a reasonable doubt, which requires near certainty before a conviction. It’s also different from clear and convincing evidence, a higher civil standard used in certain contexts. So, the term reflects the idea that being more likely true than not is enough to meet the burden of proof.