Originally posted by harry
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noun Law.
a case in which the evidence produced is sufficient to enable a decision or verdict to be made unless the evidence is rebutted.
Prima facie means, more or less "at first glance" "on the face of things". This is what Scobie said and meant, and what he reinforced that by adding that it was a prima facie case "that suggested he was guilty".
Meaning that if we go only by what the prosecution says, Lechmere looks guilty and there is enough in it to make for a court case - SO FAR!
He leaves the defence untouched upon, since he never saw it. But you and me both know that there IS no real defence, and absolutely nothing that can clear Lechmere. It would all come down to his answers in court and his ability to bolster them.
Of course, if the defence could dig up evidence that Lechmere could not be the killer, the case would be dismissed. But could they?
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