Prima facie — Latin for "on its face"
is a foundational legal concept. It signifies that upon initial examination, sufficient evidence appears to exist to support a case. Not to win it. Just to keep it alive.
What It Actually Means
Prima facie evidence does not need to be conclusive or irrefutable. At this stage, only whether the case has enough merit to go to trial is considered — not the other side's rebuttal.
If the threshold isn't met, the case is dismissed before it truly begins.
Who It Applies To
It's not just a civil law concept. In a criminal trial, the prosecution carries the burden of presenting prima facie evidence of each element of the crime charged. In civil cases, that duty falls on the plaintiff.
Why It Matters
Once a prima facie case is established, the burden of production shifts — the other party must put forward enough evidence for a reasonable jury to find in their favor on every element of the claim.
