Which type of evidence is derived from a witness's own sensory experience?

Direct evidence is derived from a witness's own sensory experience, meaning it is first-hand knowledge of events as they happened. This type of evidence includes observations that a witness has made using their senses, such as seeing an event take place, hearing a conversation, or smelling something relevant to the case. Because direct evidence comes from personal experience, it is often considered very reliable as it does not rely on inference or presumption; instead, it presents facts that are immediately observed by the witness.

In contrast, testimonial evidence, while sometimes overlapping with direct evidence, refers specifically to statements made by witnesses under oath. While testimonials can provide direct accounts, they are categorized separately as they may contain interpretations or recollections that differ from the immediate sensory experience. Circumstantial evidence relies on inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact, and physical evidence refers to tangible items presented in court to support a case. Each of these categories serves different functions within legal contexts, but direct evidence stands out as the most straightforward in its basis on personal observation.