If the defendant refuses an oath that would establish monetary compensation, is any liability established against them?
Chapter on Qasamah (Oaths regarding murder)
Al-Mughni
Book of Blood-Money (Diyyāt)
Primary text
If the oath is directed against the defendant in a claim where financial compensation could be established, there must be some obligation upon the defendant. If no liability were established upon their refusal, they would be entirely absolved, which is impermissible.