Evidence that consists of a fact or set of facts which, if proven, will support the creation of an inference that the matter asserted is true. Evidence that relies on an inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact—such as a fingerprint at the scene of a crime.
Circumstantial evidence refers to all evidence except eyewitness testimony. It allows a judge or jury to infer a fact from the circumstances. This type of evidence requires a reasoning process to connect it to a conclusion regarding an element of the crime. Examples of circumstantial evidence include physical evidence, such as fingerprints, from which an inference can be drawn. The following examples and case studies illustrate the concept and implications of circumstantial evidence in various legal contexts:
These cases further demonstrate the application and implications of circumstantial evidence in legal proceedings:
For more detailed information, see our related Evidence terms: