Real evidence refers to tangible and physical objects, or any other material form of proof, presented during legal proceedings to establish a fact or support a claim. It is a crucial aspect of trials, investigations, and inquiries as it provides tangible support for arguments and helps unravel the truth.
Real evidence can include a wide range of items, such as weapons, documents, photographs, fingerprints, DNA samples, or any physical objects that are relevant to a case. It differs from testimonial evidence, which relies on the verbal statements or accounts of witnesses or experts. While testimonial evidence can be valuable, it can also be subjective or influenced by personal biases, making it crucial to corroborate it with real evidence.
The purpose of real evidence is to provide an objective link between a fact and the case. It is typically presented through visual aids, exhibits, or demonstrations during court proceedings. Real evidence can be used to establish key elements of a case, such as the presence of a specific item or substance, the condition of an object, or the occurrence of an event.
When admitting real evidence, legal standards such as relevance, authenticity, and chain of custody must be met. Relevance ensures that the evidence has a logical connection to the case and helps determine the truth. Authenticity refers to evidence being genuine and unaltered, ensuring its reliability. Chain of custody ensures that the evidence has been properly handled and preserved, maintaining its integrity.
Overall, real evidence is critical in the pursuit of justice as it offers tangible proof, adding weight and credibility to arguments and bringing substantial support to legal proceedings.
