N.J. R. Evid. 301 (2026)

(a) Except as otherwise provided in Rule 303 or by other law, a presumption discharges the burden of producing evidence as to a fact (the presumed fact) when another fact (the basic fact) has been established.

(b) If evidence is introduced tending to disprove the presumed fact, the issue shall be submitted to the trier of fact for determination unless the evidence is such that reasonable persons would not differ as to the existence or nonexistence of the presumed fact.

(c) If no evidence tending to disprove the presumed fact is presented, the presumed fact shall be deemed established if the basic fact is found or otherwise established.

(d) The burden of persuasion as to the proof or disproof of the presumed fact does not shift to the party against whom the presumption is directed unless otherwise required by law.

(e) Nothing in this rule shall preclude the court from commenting on inferences that may be drawn from the evidence.

NOTE: Adopted September 15, 1992 to be effective July 1, 1993; text amended and redesignated as paragraphs (a) through (e) September 16, 2019 to be effective July 1, 2020.