What is the difference between circumstantial and direct evidence?

In Washington, the law states that when determining guilt or innocence in a drug crime, prosecutors can use either circumstantial or direct evidence to reach a verdict. Both types of evidence can be used in criminal cases, but there are some important differences that should be noted. Direct evidence is evidence that directly proves a fact in question. Direct evidence is usually obtained by eye-witness testimony or by finding something such as a weapon or drugs that are directly related to the crime. This evidence is usually based on firsthand knowledge of what occurred. Circumstantial evidence, on the other hand, is evidence that indirectly proves a fact in question. This evidence is usually obtained by finding something or someone in the vicinity of the crime or the suspect which suggests that a crime may have occurred. It often includes things like surveillance footage, phone records, and other similar evidence. In Washington, prosecutors can choose to present either direct or circumstantial evidence as part of their case in a drug crime trial. However, because circumstantial evidence is not based on firsthand knowledge, it is often less reliable than direct evidence. Therefore, in order for the prosecutor to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, they may need to present more circumstantial evidence than direct evidence.

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What is the difference between circumstantial and direct evidence?

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