In law, the system relies on evidence to support or deny plaintiff and defendant claims. There are a variety of methods used in court now to support cases. As the world continues to evolve, so do the types of evidence that exist.

There are two major categories of evidence: direct evidence and circumstantial evidence. There are no inferences required for direct evidence. As an example, ballistics tests showing that a bullet was fired by a specific firearm, would be a form of direct evidence, since the action has a direct cause to the crime. 

Circumstantial evidence is different. This category of evidence is where inferences are drawn from the evidence in question to reach a conclusion in regards to something. As an example, eyewitness testimony that a person was seen fleeing from the scene of a crime, would be a form of circumstantial evidence since the crime was not actually seen, but the individual was seen running from the location after the crime was committed.

Going a bit deeper, evidence can be divided into even further categories. Testimonial evidence is a form of evidence from statements and assertions by a witness. The people providing eye witness testimony are also referred to as declarants. Documentary evidence is a type of evidence in the form of photographs or writing. Demonstrative evidence is a form of non-testimonial evidence that can be looked at by the court. Examples include models or charts from a scientist where their expertise is warranted in the case.

The rules of evidence apply to all legal matters. They have been established throughout our nation. This goes without exception in the state of Colorado. As time has progressed, photographs have been regarded as real and documentary evidence. Due to a photograph’s ability to capture specific visual moments in time, this information is considered fairly reliable.

Car accident cases have many advancing sources of evidence. Today, computer modeling and data can play a large role in case outcomes. Scientists can now take many pieces of circumstantial evidence and conclude the cause of car accidents, although this requires expert deciphering.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER: