What characterizes prima facie evidence?

Prima facie evidence is defined as evidence that, at first glance, is sufficient to establish a fact or raise a presumption unless disproven or rebutted. This means that such evidence appears to be credible and acceptable based on the initial presentation and does not require further proof to support a claim. It holds validity until challenged with contrary evidence.

This understanding is foundational in legal contexts, where a party may establish a case based on prima facie evidence to shift the burden of proof to the opposing party. It effectively means that if no further evidence is provided to dispute it, the claims based on prima facie evidence can stand.

Other options suggest characteristics that do not align with the accepted definition of prima facie evidence, such as evidence that is definitively false or solely reliant on direct testimonies, which would not categorize it properly in legal and evidentiary contexts. Additionally, the idea of lacking formal documentation does not fit the nature of prima facie evidence, which can exist in various documentary forms.