Direct and circumstantial evidence. Circumstantial evidence differs from direct evidence in that direct evidence can directly support the case and prove probable cause on its own where circumstantial evidence is when the evidence indirectly supports the case. An example of circumstantial evidence would be something like “I observed the suspect enter the victim’s house, and I then heard a shot. I saw the suspect calmly walk out of the house, furtively look around, get in his car and drive off.” This differs from direct evidence, as direct evidence requires you to observe the act as it happens. This statement would look something like this: “I observed the suspect walk up to the victim, argue with him, and then pull out a gun and shoot the victim. He then ran to his car and drove off.” These are two very different statements, and mean two very different
Direct and circumstantial evidence. Circumstantial evidence differs from direct evidence in that direct evidence can directly support the case and prove probable cause on its own where circumstantial evidence is when the evidence indirectly supports the case. An example of circumstantial evidence would be something like “I observed the suspect enter the victim’s house, and I then heard a shot. I saw the suspect calmly walk out of the house, furtively look around, get in his car and drive off.” This differs from direct evidence, as direct evidence requires you to observe the act as it happens. This statement would look something like this: “I observed the suspect walk up to the victim, argue with him, and then pull out a gun and shoot the victim. He then ran to his car and drove off.” These are two very different statements, and mean two very different