Rule 8.29 Burden of proof and standard of evidence

Here's a plain English summary:

When a minor files a petition in juvenile court, she is the one who has to prove her case. The law calls this the "burden of proof," which means it's her job to show the court that what she's claiming is true. The other side doesn't have to prove anything unless she meets this requirement first.

The standard she has to meet is called "preponderance of the evidence." This is a lower bar than what's used in criminal cases. It simply means she has to show that her claims are more likely true than not true. Think of it like tipping a scale just slightly past 50/50 in her favor. She doesn't need overwhelming proof, just enough to convince the court that her side of the story is more believable than not.

This rule matters because it tells everyone involved what's expected in court. The minor and her attorney need to gather enough evidence and present a strong enough case to clear this bar. If she can't meet this standard, the court won't rule in her favor, even if her claims might be true.