Which type of evidence includes documents like contracts and official records?

Documentary evidence encompasses any type of evidence that is presented in the form of documents. This includes contracts, official records, emails, photographs, and any written materials that can support or refute claims in a legal proceeding. The significance of documentary evidence lies in its ability to provide tangible proof that can be used to substantiate facts without relying primarily on witness testimony.

For instance, contracts can demonstrate the terms agreed upon by parties, while official records might include government documents vital for establishing ownership or identity. Documentary evidence is crucial in various situations, such as contract disputes or criminal cases where paperwork supports the narrative of the incident.

Other types of evidence, such as physical evidence, pertains to tangible items collected from a crime scene, but these do not specifically refer to written documents. Direct evidence refers to evidence that directly demonstrates a fact, like eyewitness accounts, while forensic evidence usually involves scientific analysis of physical materials. These distinctions highlight the unique role of documentary evidence in legal contexts.