prima facie evidence

American  

noun

Law.

1. evidence sufficient to establish a fact or to raise a presumption of fact unless rebutted.

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prima-facie evidence British  

noun

1. law evidence that is sufficient to establish a fact or to raise a presumption of the truth of a fact unless controverted

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Etymology

Origin of prima facie evidence

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

“Secrecy and exclusivity are prima facie evidence of gang activity in the tattooed groups,” said Inspector General Max Huntsman.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 18, 2025

Lawyers acting for Labour previously asked the High Court to grant permission to use the document, which it said contained "prima facie evidence of wrongdoing".

From BBC • Oct. 5, 2023

Violation of this rule is considered prima facie evidence of reckless driving.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 21, 2023

Is the existence of journalistic error prima facie evidence of journalistic malice?

From Slate • Nov. 23, 2021

By the Documentary Evidence Act 1868 the production of a copy of the Gazette is prima facie evidence of royal proclamations and government orders and regulations.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 5 "Gassendi, Pierre" to "Geocentric" by Various