What does the term "prima facie" refer to in legal contexts?

The term "prima facie" in legal contexts refers to evidence that is sufficient to establish a reasonable probability of an allegation. This term, which originates from Latin meaning "at first glance" or "on its face," signifies that the evidence presented is adequate to support a claim or assertion unless contradicted by further evidence. In practice, when a case is said to have prima facie evidence, it means that there is enough initial evidence to support the plaintiff's case or the prosecution's charges, thereby shifting the burden of proof to the opposing side to refute or disprove it.

The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of "prima facie." The first choice discusses evidence that is insufficient, which does not align with the notion of establishing a case. The second choice pertains to the standard of "beyond a reasonable doubt," which is a higher threshold primarily applicable in criminal cases, rather than the preliminary standard indicated by prima facie. Lastly, evidence deemed inadmissible in court reflects a complete exclusion from consideration rather than an initial standard of sufficiency.