What is the standard of proof in civil cases in Louisiana?

In Louisiana civil cases, the standard of proof is "preponderance of the evidence." This standard requires that the evidence shows that something is more likely true than not, meaning that there is a greater than 50% chance that the claim being made is valid.

This standard is the most commonly applied in civil litigation, distinguishing it from the higher standard of "beyond a reasonable doubt," which is used in criminal cases. It reflects the less severe consequences of civil cases compared to criminal cases and is intended to facilitate the resolution of disputes based on probabilities rather than certainties.

"Substantial evidence" is typically a phrase used in administrative law and certain judicial reviews, not in cases that measure the weight of evidence in civil trials. "Clear and convincing evidence" is another higher standard used in specific civil matters, like cases involving heightened scrutiny such as various civil commitments or when establishing fraud. However, in most general civil cases, the prevailing standard remains the preponderance of the evidence.