Understanding How Judges Decide Your Civil Lawsuits

Ever wondered how a judge decides in a civil case? It all boils down to the evidence! As a law firm in Maryland, we’d like to tell you that the judge’s decision hinges on the evidentiary standard, which is the amount of proof needed to rule in favor of one party.

The evidentiary standard is the threshold of proof required to decide a case, and it varies depending on the type of case. In criminal cases, the standard is “beyond a reasonable doubt,” which requires a high level of certainty to convict. In contrast, civil cases use the “preponderance of evidence” standard, which requires a lower level of certainty to determine liability.

In most civil cases, including personal injury lawsuits, the judge decides based on a “preponderance of evidence.” This means that the judge will carefully listen to both sides, review the evidence, and then determine which party’s story is more likely to be true. Think of it as a balance scale—if the plaintiff’s evidence tips the scale just slightly in their favor, they win the case.

In a personal injury case, the plaintiff (the injured party) must show that there is at least a 51% chance that the defendant (the party being sued) is at fault. If the judge believes that both parties are equally likely to be correct, the plaintiff has not met the burden of proof, and the judge must rule in favor of the defendant. So, the plaintiff’s story needs to be just a bit more convincing.

To meet the preponderance of evidence standard in civil litigation, various types of evidence can be used, such as:

• Accident Scene Photos and Videos: Visual evidence showing the scene of the incident can be very compelling.
• Medical Records: Documentation of injuries and treatments can establish the extent of harm caused.
• Pay Stubs: Proof of lost wages due to injury can support claims for financial compensation.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from people who saw the incident notarized with notary public services can add credibility to the plaintiff’s story.

Facing a civil lawsuit? If you need legal services in Laurel, Maryland, don’t wait—contact The Mercy Law Firm LLC today for a consultation. Let us help you gather the evidence and present the strongest possible case to ensure you get the justice you deserve.