RESEARCH ARTICLE
Prima facie evidence in medical proceedings
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Wyższa Szkoła Administracji i Biznesu im. E. Kwiatkowskiego w Gdyni
Publication date: 2025-12-08
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Filip Cyganek
Wyższa Szkoła Administracji i Biznesu im. E. Kwiatkowskiego w Gdyni
PPM 2025;7(3):41-61
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ABSTRACT
The article analyzes the concept of prima facie evidence in medical proceedings. The institution of prima facie evidence is particularly interesting because it lacks a clear foundation in legal regulations. Nevertheless, the use of this type of evidence has been accepted in legal doctrine and case law in certain proceedings, including medical cases. Prima facie evidence is intended to serve as an evidentiary facilitation, enabling the weaker party in the proceedings (the patient) - who typically bears the burden of proof - to demonstrate all the prerequisites for the liability of the party causing harm (the doctor or medical entity).
The article presents views from legal doctrine and the position of the judiciary regarding the concept of prima facie evidence, its subject matter, and its structure. It also analyzes exemplary medical cases in which this type of evidence was used.