In civil litigation, which standard of proof requires the plaintiff's claim to be more likely true than not?

• A. Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
• B. Clear and Convincing
• C. Preponderance of the Evidence
• D. Probable Cause

Answer: (C)

In civil litigation, the claim must be more likely true than not. This is the preponderance of the evidence standard—if the evidence tips the scales slightly in the plaintiff’s favor, the claim is proven and the plaintiff prevails. It means proving a probability greater than 50%.

This is distinct from other standards. Beyond a reasonable doubt is the much higher bar used in criminal cases to convict, not to establish civil liability. Clear and convincing evidence sits between the two and is used in certain civil matters when the law requires a higher level of certainty, such as fraud or some guardianship situations. Probable cause is a standard used to justify initiating a criminal proceeding or making an arrest, not to resolve civil liability.