In a civil trial applying the Slayer Rule, what standard of proof is used to determine whether the killer wrongfully killed the decedent?

• A. Clear and convincing evidence
• B. Beyond a reasonable doubt
• C. Preponderance of the evidence
• D. Probable cause

Answer: (C)

The Slayer Rule in civil proceedings uses the preponderance of the evidence standard. This means the court asks whether it is more likely than not that the killer unlawfully caused the decedent’s death and is therefore disqualified from inheriting. It’s a civil remedy, so the threshold isn’t as high as criminal proof. The other standards fit different contexts: clear and convincing is a higher civil burden used in some cases (like fraud or certain guardianship matters), beyond a reasonable doubt is the criminal standard, and probable cause relates to warrants and arrests, not civil disqualification in probate.