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THE RULES OF EVIDENCE

المؤلف:  Max M. Houck، Jay A. Siegel

المصدر:  Fundamentals of Forensic Science

الجزء والصفحة:  627

2026-09-09

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THE RULES OF EVIDENCE

Evidence is defined as anything that will help prove or disprove a material fact. It helps the judge or jury reach conclusions about the guilt or innocence of the defendant. There are two major types of evidence: real and testimonial. Real evidence is physical; it consists of things that help link a suspect to a crime or explain the circumstances of the incident. It may be physical evidence such as fingerprints, fibers, blood, weapons or it may be demonstrative evidence, which consists of supporting materials such as crime scene photos or sketches. Demonstrative evidence does not arise directly from the commission of the crime, but is generated by observation and documentation of the crime scene. Testimonial evidence is the oral recitation of facts and sometimes impressions or opinions by a witness under oath. Lay (nonexpert) witnesses’ testimony is usually limited to first-hand observations and impressions. Lay witnesses are not normally permitted to offer opinions; they may only state facts. Expert witnesses, on the other hand, are often called upon to state conclusions and opinions based upon their examination of evidence or observation of the crime scene or parties to the crime. These conclusions and opinions must be within the purview of their expertise.