Ontario Private Investigator Practice Exam

On what basis must the plaintiff prove the accused's guilt in a civil matter?

1. Witness testimonies only

2. Physical evidence only

3. Balance of probabilities

4. Complete certainty

The correct answer is: Balance of probabilities

In a civil matter, the plaintiff is required to prove the accused's guilt on the basis of a balance of probabilities. This means that the plaintiff must provide enough evidence to convince the court that it is more likely than not that the accused is responsible for the alleged wrongdoing. This differs from criminal cases, where the accused's guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Option A is incorrect because witness testimonies alone may not provide enough evidence to establish the accused's guilt on the balance of probabilities. Option B is incorrect because physical evidence alone may not be enough to sway the court's decision on the balance of probabilities. Option D is incorrect because the burden of proof in civil cases is not as stringent as complete certainty.