Section 4.52 “Inference” Distinguished

• Library: Evidence 2017

2. (§4.52) “Inference” Distinguished

A presumption is similar to an inference. An inference is a logical, factual conclusion that may be drawn from proof presented; a presumption, on the other hand, is a rule of law that compels a particular conclusion from certain proof. 1 Spencer A. Gard, Missouri Evidence § 3:01, p. 68 (1985); 2 John W. Strong, McCormick on Evidence § 342, p. 433 (5^th ed. 1999).

Although the term “presumption” is sometimes erroneously interchanged with the term “inference,” they are not...