Clear and convincing evidence is the intermediate level of burden of persuasion sometimes employed in the civil procedure. In order to prove something by "Clear and convincing evidence" the party with the burden of proof must convince the trier of fact that it is substantially more likely than not that the thing is in fact true. This is a lesser requirement than "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" which requires that the trier of fact be all but certain of the truth of the matter asserted, but a stricter requirement than proof by "preponderance of the evidence," which merely requires that the matter aserted seem more likely true than not. The Burden of Persuasion in a debate or trial is the requirement that those arguing against the status quo must demonstrate that a problem exists. ... Civil procedure is the written set of rules that sets out the process that courts will follow when hearing cases of a civil nature (a civil action). These rules explain how a lawsuit must be commenced, what kind of service of process is required, the types of pleadings, motions, and... Burden of proof is the obligation to prove allegations which are presented in a legal action. ... A trier of fact is the person or group of persons in a trial who make findings of fact as opposed to rulings of law. ... Beyond a reasonable doubt is the highest level of burden of persuasion typically employed in the criminal procedure. ... Preponderance of the evidence is the level of burden of persuasion typically employed in the civil procedure. ...

See also

• Standard of proof
  • Beyond a reasonable doubt
  • Preponderance of the evidence