In civil cases, onus is on whom?

• A. The defendant
• B. The plaintiff
• C. The jury
• D. The judge

Answer: (B)

In civil cases, the burden of proof sits with the plaintiff—the person bringing the claim. They must show, on the balance of probabilities, that the facts support liability. This lower standard, compared to criminal cases, reflects that civil disputes aim to resolve private rights and provide remedies like compensation. The defendant doesn’t have to prove they’re innocent; they respond to the claim and may present defenses to challenge or rebut the plaintiff’s evidence. The judge or jury then decides the outcome based on whether the plaintiff’s evidence meets the required standard. If the plaintiff fails to prove their case, the defendant prevails.