Presumed
Presumed: Treated as true by law until shown otherwise. For example, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and a properly mailed letter is presumed to have been received. See Presumption.
What presumed means
In practice, you will see presumed in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where presumed comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
Read the source: Presumption.
How to research the term
Start with the primary source. For example, if presumed appears in a federal rule, read the rule itself and its official notes. After that, check your court’s local rules and any standing orders from the judge. In addition, search recent decisions from your own state or federal district. They show how courts read presumed in practice. Because state rules often differ, our state procedures guide links to each state’s official rules. Above all, make sure the version you read is still in force.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Prejudice: harm to a party's legal rights. The word also describes whether a dismissal is final: a dismissal with prejudice bars refiling the same claim, while a dismissal without prejudice does not.
- Preliminary injunction: an order issued during a case, after notice, to preserve the situation until the case is decided.
- Preponderance of the evidence: the usual standard of proof in civil cases: the fact is more likely true than not.
- Presentment: a demand to pay or accept a negotiable instrument, made by or for the person entitled to enforce it, to the party obliged to pay (UCC § 3-501). Presentment applies to instruments such as checks, drafts and notes; a letter, bill or court document is not presented in this sense.
Why precise terms matter
Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.