Pennsylvania Jury Instruction — 6.2 Burden of Proof for Multiple Claims or if Both Plaintiff and Defendant or Third Parties Have Burden of Proof In Pennsylvania, in a civil trial where multiple claims are involved or if both the plaintiff and defendant or third parties have the burden of proof, the court provides jury instructions to guide the jury in determining the burden of proof for each claim. Here are different types of Pennsylvania Jury Instruction — 6.2 Burden of Proof for Multiple Claims or if Both Plaintiff and Defendant or Third Parties Have Burden of Proof: 1. Burden of Proof for Multiple Claims: When multiple claims are presented in a civil case, each claim has its own burden of proof that the respective party must meet. The court instructs the jury on the specific burden of proof applicable to each claim. For example, in a personal injury case, the plaintiff must prove negligence by a preponderance of the evidence, while in a separate claim for economic damages, they may need to prove causation and financial loss by clear and convincing evidence. 2. Burden of Proof for Plaintiff: In cases where the plaintiff has the burden of proof, the court instructs the jury on the specific standard of proof required. Generally, the plaintiff must prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence. They must present evidence and arguments to convince the jury that their version of events is more likely true than not. 3. Burden of Proof for Defendant: When the defendant bears the burden of proof, often as part of a counterclaim or affirmative defense, the court provides instructions on the standard of proof the defendant must meet. The defendant must present evidence and arguments to convince the jury that their version of events is more likely true than not, or satisfy a higher standard such as clear and convincing evidence. 4. Burden of Proof for Third Parties: In some cases, third parties may become parties to the litigation, either as plaintiffs or defendants, with their own claims or defenses. The court will provide separate instructions to the jury regarding the burden of proof applicable to these third parties, distinguishing them from the primary plaintiff and defendant. It's important for the jury to understand that the burden of proof lies with the party asserting a claim or defense. They must satisfy the burden to a specified degree of certainty, as instructed by the court, in order for the jury to find in their favor.