What does the term "putative" refer to in legal contexts?

The term "putative" in legal contexts refers to something that is commonly accepted or supposed to be true, even if it hasn’t been definitively established or proven. It often describes a status or relationship that is assumed or alleged based on available information or prevailing beliefs. For instance, a "putative father" refers to a man who is presumed or alleged to be the biological father of a child, even if paternity has not been legally proven.

This term emphasizes the accepted belief or presumption, rather than any definitive legal standing. In legal discussions, recognizing the "putative" nature of certain claims or relationships is important as it can influence the direction of legal arguments or proceedings.