Which type of evidence is considered the most reliable in court?

Physical evidence is regarded as the most reliable type of evidence in court due to its objectivity and direct connection to the facts of a case. This type of evidence includes tangible items such as fingerprints, DNA, weapons, clothing, and any other physical objects that can be collected and analyzed scientifically. The reliability of physical evidence lies in its ability to be tested, verified, and corroborated through forensic methods, providing concrete proof that supports or contradicts various claims made in a trial.

In contrast, circumstantial evidence relies on inference rather than direct proof, which can lead to varying interpretations. Documentary evidence, while useful, can also be subject to forgery or misinterpretation, affecting its reliability. Witness testimony can be influenced by memory biases and personal perceptions, making it less dependable than evidence that is physical in nature. Because of these factors, physical evidence is often seen as more definitive, playing a vital role in establishing facts in a legal context.