Necessary Inference Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Necessary Inference, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Necessary Inference?

Deriving logical conclusions on the basis of existing facts and reasons.

History and Meaning of Necessary Inference

Necessary inference is an essential principle in legal reasoning. It refers to the process of logically deducing new facts or conclusions from established premises, either expressly stated or implied. This technique has been used in the legal field for centuries as a way to interpret and apply the law to specific cases. Necessary inference helps to fill in any gaps in the law or in the facts of a case, allowing lawyers and judges to come to informed and logical conclusions.

Examples of Necessary Inference

  • In a case where an individual is seen holding a gun near a robbery site, the necessary inference may be that the individual committed the robbery.
  • If a contract specifies that goods will be delivered within a certain timeframe, but no specific delivery method is mentioned, the necessary inference may be that the goods will be delivered using a standard shipping method.
  • In a case where a person is found to have a large amount of cash, the necessary inference may be that the cash was obtained through illegal means.

Legal Terms Similar to Necessary Inference

  • Presumption: A legal assumption that is made based on the available evidence until it is rebutted by further evidence.
  • Inference: A conclusion drawn from evidence or facts.
  • Deduction: The process of reaching a logical conclusion by using existing facts or premises.
  • Implication: A conclusion that can be inferred from a statement or action.