What is a presumption in criminal law?

• A. A known fact is always proven in court
• B. It is the same as a presiding judge's decision
• C. An assumption that a fact exists based on the known existence of other facts
• D. A rule that a defendant cannot be convicted without direct evidence

Answer: (C)

A presumption in criminal law is an inference that a certain fact exists based on other facts that are already known or proven. It allows a judge or jury to infer something about someone or a situation without requiring direct evidence of that specific fact every time. For example, if someone is found in possession of recently stolen property, a presumption may arise that they knew it was stolen, unless the defense presents evidence to rebut that inference. This concept helps move cases forward when direct proof of every detail isn’t available, and it can be challenged with contrary evidence. It’s not a guarantee, nor is it a judge’s final decision by itself, and it isn’t about rejecting the use of direct evidence altogether.