In civil cases, which statement best describes 'preponderance of the evidence'?

• A. Beyond a reasonable doubt
• B. Clear and convincing evidence
• C. Preponderance of the evidence
• D. Probable cause

Answer: (C)

In civil cases, you prove a claim by tipping the scales in your favor—showing it is more likely true than not. That’s what “preponderance of the evidence” means: the greater weight of the evidence supports the claim, even if by a small margin. It requires proof that the claim is more probable than not, not absolute certainty. This standard is lower than criminal proof (“beyond a reasonable doubt”) and is specifically about which side’s evidence has the greater weight. So, the best description is that the evidence favors one side enough to make the claim more likely true than not. Probable cause and the higher civil standard called clear and convincing are distinct concepts used in other contexts.