Final answer:
To be convicted in a criminal case, the standard is 'beyond a reasonable doubt,' which is a much higher bar than in civil cases, signifying a conviction should only occur if there is no reasonable doubt left by the evidence presented.
Step-by-step explanation:
To be convicted in a criminal case, the standard of evidence required is beyond a reasonable doubt. This standard is much higher than in a civil case, where the required evidence is a preponderance of evidence. For criminal cases, including capital homicide cases, the evidence must be so convincing that it leaves no reasonable ground for doubt about the defendant's guilt. While not requiring an absolute certainty or beyond a shadow of a doubt, the proof needs to be beyond all reasonable questions.
In the justice system, a core principle upholds the presumption of innocence, meaning that the accused is considered innocent until proven guilty. This high standard (beyond a reasonable doubt) is significant, especially given the high stakes involved where the defendant's liberty or life may be at risk. The Sixth Amendment outlines this and other rights essential to a fair trial, ensuring due process is observed.