Section 204 Of Chapter 1. Proceedings To Establish Death From California Probate Code >> Division 2. >> Part 4. >> Chapter 1.

. (a) The petition and supporting affidavits may be received in evidence and acted upon by the court with the same force and effect as if the petitioner and affiants were personally present and testified to the facts set forth.
  (b) The court may render judgment establishing the fact of the death. The judgment is prima facie evidence of the fact of the death. The presumption established by this subdivision is a presumption affecting the burden of producing evidence.