Criminal Evidence Law and Legal Definition
Criminal evidence means any exhibit or testimony presented in relation to a crime. It is evidence presented to prove a crime. Criminal evidence may be presented in different forms. Such evidences are used to establish crimes.
Before deciding a case, it is very important to ensure that the criminal evidence that is presented is legal and accurate. The requirements relating to a valid criminal evidence differs between legal systems. Generally, both direct and circumstantial evidences are presented before a jury.
Verbal or written testimony forms a major part of criminal evidence. Testimonies may come from many sources. It can come from principal parties such as the victim and the suspect, and also from parties who are not related to crimes, for example, experts. Physical criminal evidence may include things such as clothing, jewelry, weapons. It may also include DNA evidence such as saliva, nails, blood, hair, or bodily fluids. Physical evidence can be either direct or circumstantial, but always involves tangible objects.
