Which type of evidence is described as a statement made under oath?

Testimonial evidence is defined as statements made by witnesses under oath, often during a trial or deposition. This type of evidence is critical in legal proceedings as it provides first-hand accounts of events, often offering insights into the circumstances surrounding a crime or relevant facts in a case. Witnesses can provide direct information regarding their observations, experiences, and conclusions, which can heavily influence the outcome of a case.

Physical evidence refers to tangible items that are relevant to the crime scene, such as fingerprints, weapons, or clothing, rather than individuals' statements. Forensic evidence typically refers to scientific tests and analyses conducted on physical evidence, such as DNA analysis or toxicology reports. Direct evidence is specific in that it directly proves a fact; for instance, if a witness saw the crime occur, their account would qualify as direct evidence, but it is still categorized as testimonial. Thus, the primary characteristic defining testimonial evidence is the fact that it consists of individuals making statements under oath, which is crucial in establishing credibility and legality in court.