Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What term describes evidence that indirectly proves a fact through inference?

1. Direct Evidence

2. Circumstantial Evidence

3. Real Evidence

4. Testimonial Evidence

The correct answer is: Circumstantial Evidence

Circumstantial evidence is the term used to describe evidence that relies on an inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact. It doesn't directly prove a fact, but rather suggests a possibility. For example, finding a person's fingerprints at a crime scene can lead one to infer their presence at the scene, even if they weren't directly seen there. This type of evidence can be very powerful, as it can build a strong case when multiple pieces of circumstantial evidence point to the same conclusion. It allows the jury or decision-makers to make logical inferences based on the presented information. The significance of circumstantial evidence lies in its ability to suggest a narrative or a plausible explanation of events without requiring direct observations or concrete proof.