What defines circumstantial evidence?

Circumstantial evidence is defined as evidence that relies on an inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact. It is not direct evidence but rather consists of circumstances or events that suggest a particular conclusion about the matter being investigated. This form of evidence often involves events leading up to the crime, which can indicate that something occurred without providing direct proof. For instance, if a suspect is found at the scene of a crime shortly after it happened and has no alibi, that scenario can be considered circumstantial evidence pointing towards their potential involvement.

The other choices represent different kinds of evidence. Witness testimonies provide direct accounts from individuals who have observed the events and are therefore not circumstantial. Directly observed facts involve firsthand evidence, such as seeing the crime occur, which is the opposite of circumstantial evidence. Confessions made by a defendant are direct admissions of guilt that provide straightforward proof of culpability, not the inference-based conclusions that characterize circumstantial evidence.