What is the difference between hearsay and direct evidence?

Hearsay and direct evidence are two different types of evidence that may be presented in a criminal trial in South Carolina. Direct evidence is evidence that is provided by an eyewitness or other person who has knowledge based on his or her own personal experience. This type of evidence is considered to be reliable and is considered to be more reliable than hearsay. Hearsay is evidence that is provided by someone other than an eyewitness, such as a written statement or a second-hand account of an event. Hearsay is less reliable than direct evidence because it has not been witnessed or heard firsthand. Because of this, the courts may not accept hearsay as reliable evidence. In South Carolina, hearsay evidence may be admitted in some cases if it meets certain conditions. For example, the statement must have been made under certain circumstances, such as if the person heard the statement when it was made or if the statement was made in a court of law. However, even when these conditions are met, the courts may not give hearsay the same level of weight as direct evidence. Therefore, the main difference between hearsay and direct evidence is that hearsay is less reliable than direct evidence because it is not based on firsthand knowledge or experience. Direct evidence is considered to be more reliable and therefore carries more weight in a court of law in South Carolina.

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What is the difference between hearsay and direct evidence?

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