What does "prima facie" mean?

The term "prima facie" is a Latin expression that translates to "at first glance" or "on its face." Therefore, the correct choice aligns with the concept that "prima facie" refers to something that is evident or apparent upon initial examination before further investigation is conducted.

In legal contexts, a prima facie case refers to a situation where the evidence presented is sufficient to prove a point unless disproven by opposing evidence. This captures the essence of the term accurately, emphasizing that the understanding is based on the first appearance or initial observation.

The other choices, while related in some way to the nature of face value or initial impressions, do not capture the precise legal interpretation or common usage of "prima facie." For instance, "for the sake of form" implies a focus on formalities rather than initial evidence, "after this" relates to sequence rather than initial appearances, and "in and of itself" suggests a standalone quality rather than an impression formed initially. Hence, "first appearance" is the most appropriate interpretation of "prima facie."