In legal terms, what is the 'onus of proof'?

The concept of 'onus of proof' refers to the responsibility that one party holds in a legal dispute to provide sufficient evidence to support their claims or assertions. In legal settings, typically, this obligation lies on the party that brings the claim or accusation. For instance, in a court case, the plaintiff must demonstrate that their claims are valid through credible evidence and reasoning. This principle is fundamental in ensuring that decisions are made based on established facts rather than unfounded allegations. The burden of proof can vary depending on the context, such as whether the case is civil or criminal, but the core idea remains consistent—one party must substantiate their claims to prevail in their argument.

The other options relate to different legal terms or concepts and do not directly pertain to the specific definition of the 'onus of proof.' The time limit for filing a claim refers to statutory limitations, the amount of coverage in a policy relates to insurance terms, and the process to appeal a decision pertains to procedural aspects in the judicial system. Each of these serves distinct functions within legal processes but does not encompass the notion of proving a claim, which is central to understanding the 'onus of proof.'