The showing satisfies the burden of production on each element, permitting the case to reach the factfinder. It does not compel a finding for the party bearing the burden.
Failure to establish it supports judgment as a matter of law.
Alternative Names:
Prima Facie Showing|Initial Showing
Why it Matters?
The distinction between establishing a prima facie case and carrying the burden of persuasion is what defeats overstated arguments, since surviving a directed verdict motion says nothing about whether the party will prevail. For defendants the significance is procedural, because failure of any element supports judgment as a matter of law without reaching the merits of the remaining evidence.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Does establishing a prima facie case win?
What is its significance for defendants?
