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Simple English definitions for legal terms
reasonable-inference rule
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A quick definition of reasonable-inference rule:
The reasonable-inference rule is a principle that allows a jury to use their common sense and draw logical conclusions from the evidence presented in a trial. This means that if there is evidence that suggests something, the jury can use that evidence to make a reasonable assumption about what happened. However, this rule does not allow the jury to make multiple assumptions based on one piece of evidence, which is known as pyramid inference.
A more thorough explanation:
The reasonable-inference rule is an evidentiary principle that allows a jury to consider any reasonable inference drawn from the evidence presented at trial when deciding a case. This means that the jury can use their own reasoning and common sense to make conclusions based on the evidence presented.
For example, if a witness testifies that they saw a person running away from a crime scene, the jury can reasonably infer that the person may have been involved in the crime. Another example could be if a defendant is found with a stolen item in their possession, the jury can reasonably infer that the defendant may have stolen the item.
The reasonable-inference rule is important because it allows the jury to make logical conclusions based on the evidence presented, even if there is no direct evidence linking the defendant to the crime. However, it is important to note that the inferences made must be reasonable and based on the evidence presented, and not based on speculation or prejudice.