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Simple English definitions for legal terms
predicate fact
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A quick definition of predicate fact:
A predicate fact is a fact that is necessary to prove an ultimate fact in a legal case. It is a fact from which a presumption or inference arises and is used to establish the truth of a matter. Predicate facts are also known as evidentiary facts and are essential to the operation of an evidentiary rule. They are often established through direct testimony and can be used to prove a legal claim or defense.
A more thorough explanation:
A predicate fact is a fact that is necessary to the operation of an evidentiary rule or from which a presumption or inference arises. For example, in a trial for breach of oral contract, a party's statement "I agree to reimburse you" is an operative fact, while a statement like "Joel told me Mike said he would reimburse me" is a predicate fact.
Another example of a predicate fact is the existence of a conspiracy for the co-conspirator exception to the hearsay rule to apply.
Predicate facts are important in legal proceedings because they help establish the basis for legal claims or defenses.