What is the difference between a direct and circumstantial evidence in criminal defense law?

In criminal defense law, direct evidence and circumstantial evidence are two types of evidence used to prove a crime has been committed. Direct evidence is evidence that directly proves a crime has been committed, such as a confession or a witness account. Circumstantial evidence is evidence that suggests a crime may have occurred, such as a bloodstained shirt or fingerprints at a crime scene. In Kansas, the law states that both direct and circumstantial evidence can be used in a criminal trial. Although circumstantial evidence may be enough to prove guilt, it requires additional steps to be able to be used in court. For example, the prosecution must be able to prove that the circumstantial evidence was connected to the crime and was not there by chance. Direct evidence is considered more reliable, because there is no room for doubt. Circumstantial evidence, on the other hand, is circumstantial in nature, so it can be challenged in court due to lack of credibility or by the defense attorneys. For example, if a witness says they saw the defendant in the area of the crime, the defense can challenge this testimony by pointing out that it is possible that the witness is wrong. In Kansas, both direct and circumstantial evidence can be used in criminal defense cases. However, the prosecution must be able to prove a connection between the circumstantial evidence and the crime, and the defense can challenge circumstantial evidence if they believe it is unreliable.

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What is the difference between a direct and circumstantial evidence in criminal defense law?

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