Which of the following statements about civil suits regarding torts is generally TRUE?
A) The burden of proof rests on the defendant.
B) The plaintiff seeks to recover damages from the defendant.
C) Guilt must be proven beyond a shadow of a reasonable doubt.
D) Intent to harm must be proven.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In civil suits regarding torts, the plaintiff seeks to recover damages (compensation for losses or injuries caused by the defendant) from the defendant. The burden of proof is on the plaintiff, but the standard of proof is "preponderance of evidence" (meaning that it is more likely than not that the defendant's actions caused the plaintiff's harm), not "beyond a shadow of a reasonable doubt" like in criminal cases. Intent to harm is not always necessary to establish liability in a tort case - negligence, recklessness, and strict liability are also possible grounds.

Which of the Following Statements About Civil Suits Regarding Torts