If a plaintiff establishes a prima facie case of Res Ipsa, what is the procedural outcome?

When a plaintiff successfully establishes a prima facie case of Res Ipsa Loquitur, it means that the circumstances of the incident imply negligence because the event is one that typically does not occur in the absence of a negligent act. This legal doctrine allows the plaintiff to create an inference of negligence based on the nature of the accident and the defendant's control over the circumstances leading to the injury.

Given that a prima facie case has been established, the case proceeds to trial where the jury will determine whether the defendant was indeed negligent. The evidence provided by the plaintiff creates a rebuttable presumption of negligence, but it does not automatically rule in favor of the plaintiff. The jury will evaluate all evidence presented, including any counterarguments or defenses from the defendant.

While some procedural outcomes could suggest dismissals or judgments, establishing a prima facie case typically opens the door for the jury's involvement rather than either party preemptively being granted a decision. Thus, the procedural outcome is that the issue of negligence will be decided by the jury.