What is the difference between hearsay and direct evidence?

Hearsay and direct evidence are two different types of evidence in Delaware criminal procedure. Hearsay is a statement made by a witness – in or out of court – that is offered as evidence to support the truth of the matter asserted. Hearsay is not direct evidence because the witness is not present to testify in court, and it is not subject to cross-examination by the defense. Direct evidence, on the other hand, is evidence that is firsthand knowledge or firsthand observation of the incident in question. Direct evidence of a fact comes from a witness that has personal knowledge about the matter and is able to testify in court and be subject to cross-examination by the defense. This allows the defense to challenge the accuracy and reliability of the direct evidence presented by the prosecution. In summary, the main difference between hearsay and direct evidence is that hearsay is a statement made outside of court that is used to support the truth of a matter, while direct evidence is evidence that is firsthand knowledge or firsthand observation of the incident in question and tends to prove or disprove a fact.

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