Direct Evidence

Evidence is something (e.g., testimony, documents, objects) offered to prove or disprove an alleged fact. Direct evidence is based on a witness' personal knowledge or observation. Direct evidence can prove a fact by itself. If it is true, direct evidence proves the fact without inferences or presumptions. It is different than circumstantial evidence, which is based on inference. An example of direct evidence is witness testimony that the witness saw it raining outside before he came into the courthouse. That testimony by the witness is direct evidence that it was raining. Circumstantial evidence is indirect evidence. For example, if a witness testifies that he saw someone come inside the courthouse wearing a raincoat covered with drops of water, that testimony is circumstantial evidence because it may support a conclusion that it was raining outside. See also, Circumstantial Evidence.