In NC civil cases, what must the plaintiff prove to prevail on a claim?

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

Answer: (C)

In North Carolina civil cases, the plaintiff must prove their claim by a preponderance of the evidence—the greater weight of the evidence. This means the evidence shows it is more likely true than not that the claimed facts are true. It isn’t about eliminating all doubt; it’s about tipping the scales in the plaintiff’s favor. If the evidence is evenly balanced, the plaintiff loses because the scales don’t tip toward them.

This standard is different from the criminal standard, which requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt. It’s also different from the higher civil standard of clear and convincing evidence, which is reserved for specific situations (like certain punitive damages or particular fraud-related issues). Probable cause isn’t a standard of proof for civil claims at all.