What are the elements of a prima facie case in civil litigation?

In civil litigation in Florida, a prima facie case must satisfy four elements in order for a plaintiff to win their case. First, the plaintiff must prove that a duty existed between the plaintiff and defendant. This means that the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant was legally obligated to do something or refrain from doing something. This duty can arise from a contract or law, or it can be derived from the actions of the parties. Second, the plaintiff must show that the defendant failed to honor the duty. This means that the plaintiff must show that the defendant did not perform the specified action or failed to comply with the law. Third, the plaintiff must demonstrate that some form of damages occurred as a result of the defendant’s breach. This damage can be physical, economic, or even emotional. Finally, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the damages were caused by the defendant’s breach. This means that the plaintiff must show a direct link between the defendant’s breach and the damages that occurred. These four elements must all be satisfied for a plaintiff to make a successful prima facie case in a civil litigation in Florida. If all four elements are proven, then the burden of proof shifts to the defendant to show why they should not be liable to the plaintiff.

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What are the elements of a prima facie case in civil litigation?

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