What is the standard of proof in a civil case in Ohio?

In a civil case in Ohio, the standard of proof is "preponderance of the evidence." This means that the party initiating the case (the plaintiff) must demonstrate that their claims are more likely true than not true. Essentially, the plaintiff has to show that there is a greater than 50% chance of the facts being in their favor. This standard is lower than the standard used in criminal cases, which is "beyond a reasonable doubt," reflecting the differences in the stakes and consequences involved in civil versus criminal law.

In civil cases, the goal is to establish liability or entitlement to a remedy typically involving monetary damages or specific performance. Therefore, the preponderance of the evidence standard is appropriate, ensuring that a party can prevail based on a reasonable showing of evidence without the heightened burden present in criminal matters.

Other standards such as "clear and convincing evidence" are applied in specific civil contexts, like cases involving termination of parental rights or certain types of fraud, while "substantial evidence" is typically a standard used in administrative law contexts rather than in civil litigation.