What is considered circumstantial evidence?

Circumstantial evidence is defined as evidence that implies or suggests a fact or event but does not directly prove it. This type of evidence relies on inference and may allow a jury to draw conclusions based on the context and surrounding circumstances. For example, if a person is found near a crime scene with footprints matching those found at the scene, this is circumstantial evidence that suggests they may have been involved, but it does not conclusively prove their involvement.

In contrast, evidence that directly proves a fact refers to types of evidence that can establish an element of a case unequivocally, such as a video recording of a crime. Evidence based solely on witness testimony may provide firsthand accounts but can be unreliable and does not necessarily imply guilt or involvement without corroborating details. Lastly, confessions from suspects are considered a different category of evidence, as they can be direct admissions of guilt rather than circumstantial implications. Therefore, the correct understanding of circumstantial evidence emphasizes its indirect nature in inferring conclusions.