What type of evidence is given by a competent witness under oath?

A competent witness’s statements made under oath are categorized as testimonial evidence. This type of evidence is provided through the spoken word of the witness during a trial or deposition, where they share their observations, experiences, and opinions related to the case at hand. The key aspect of testimonial evidence is that it relies on the credibility and reliability of the witness's account, which is bolstered by the fact that they are sworn to tell the truth.

Testimonial evidence stands out because it is derived from firsthand knowledge, unlike circumstantial evidence, which requires inference about the facts from the circumstances presented. While direct evidence directly proves a fact (like a video recording of a crime), testimonial evidence comes from what someone says about their own experiences or observations, adding a unique dimension to the evidentiary landscape in legal contexts.