When reviewing an opponent’s Prima Facie Script, read it as if the defendant confessed to every fact. If you still don’t think a crime or tort occurred, file a motion to dismiss.

Scene 5 — Pre-trial Hearing (Courtroom, next morning)

❌ “It’s the same as ‘beyond reasonable doubt.’” ✅ No – reasonable doubt is for criminal conviction. Prima facie is the low bar at the start.

In persuasion theory, the first frame wins. By reciting a prima facie script during opening statements, you force the judge and jury to view the evidence through your lens. If you establish that the defendant prima facie breached a contract, the defense is immediately on their heels trying to rebut the "obvious."

If a plaintiff or prosecutor fails to present a prima facie case, the judge may dismiss the matter immediately via a directed verdict or a motion to dismiss, as there is technically "no case to answer." The Structure of a Prima Facie Script