Final answer:
The Supreme Court generally permits the use of permissive inferences and presumptions for several reasons. They allow the court to make decisions based on probability and common sense, streamline the legal process, and promote fairness and justice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Supreme Court has generally permitted the use of permissive inferences and permissive presumptions for several reasons. One reason is that these legal principles allow the court to make decisions based on probability and common sense, rather than requiring strict proof of every fact in a case. For example, if a person is found in possession of large quantities of drugs and also has a lot of cash, a permissive inference may be used to infer that the cash is connected to illegal drug sales.
Another reason is that these inferences and presumptions help to streamline the legal process and make it more efficient. They allow the court to make factual findings without requiring extensive evidence and testimony. This can save time and resources for both the court and the parties involved in the case.
Finally, the use of permissive inferences and presumptions can promote fairness and justice. They can help to level the playing field when one party has access to certain evidence or information that the other party does not. For example, if it is difficult for the prosecution to prove that a defendant had the specific intent to commit a crime, a permissive presumption of intent may be used to shift the burden of proof to the defendant.