Which statement correctly identifies the burden of proof required to convict?

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

Answer: (B)

In criminal trials, the standard for convicting someone is beyond a reasonable doubt. This means the prosecution must prove each element of the crime to a level that leaves no reasonable doubt in a rational person’s mind about the defendant’s guilt; it doesn’t require absolute certainty, but it does require that doubt be unreasonable enough to prevent a conviction. Probable cause is the threshold to arrest or charge someone, not to convict. Preponderance of the evidence is the civil standard that simply shows more likely than not that a fact is true. Clear and convincing evidence is a higher civil standard than preponderance, but it is still not sufficient for criminal conviction.