Evidence is used to establish facts in a criminal case. Prosecutors use evidence to prove the defendant committed the crime, while the defense uses evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case. Judges determine whether evidence is admissible based on legal rules, and illegally obtained evidence can be excluded. The quality and reliability of evidence can influence whether a jury or judge convicts or acquits a defendant facing criminal charges.

Burden of Proof and the Role of Evidence

The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a criminal case. This is the highest burden of proof in our legal system due to the serious ramifications of a guilty verdict. It requires strong and credible evidence that leaves no reasonable doubt of the defendant’s guilt in the minds of the jurors or the judge. If the evidence does not convince the jury or judge, the court must acquit the defendant.

Overview of Various Types of Evidence

Prosecutors and defense attorneys present different types of evidence to support their arguments. Some evidence directly links a defendant to a crime, while other types require interpretation. Below are examples of various types of evidence used in criminal cases:

• Direct evidence directly proves a fact without requiring any inference. It includes firsthand observations, such as eyewitness testimony or a video recording of the crime.
• Circumstantial evidence suggests a fact through logical reasoning rather than direct proof. It requires interpretation, such as showing the defendant’s presence at a crime scene based on fingerprint analysis.
• Physical evidence includes tangible objects that investigators collect during an investigation. Weapons, clothing, DNA samples, and fingerprints fall under this category.
• Testimonial evidence consists of statements given under oath by witnesses. It includes accounts from people who saw or heard something relevant to the case, as well as expert opinions.
• Documentary evidence refers to written or recorded materials that provide information about the case. It includes emails, contracts, medical records, and official documents.
• Digital evidence consists of electronic records that can be retrieved from computers, phones, and other devices. Examples include social media posts, text messages, call logs, and GPS data.
• Forensic evidence involves scientific analysis to establish facts in a case. DNA testing, toxicology reports, ballistics analysis, and fingerprint identification fall under this category.
• Hearsay includes secondhand statements made outside of court and presented as evidence. Courts generally exclude hearsay unless it meets specific legal exceptions, such as statements made under certain conditions of reliability.

Illegally Obtained Evidence and Exclusionary Rule

Courts can exclude evidence from a criminal trial if law enforcement collects it illegally. The exclusionary rule prevents prosecutors from using evidence obtained through unlawful searches, seizures, or interrogations. If police violate a defendant’s constitutional rights in gathering evidence, the defense can ask the court to exclude the evidence. Exceptions exist, such as when officers act in good faith or when the evidence would have been discovered legally. If the court excludes key evidence, it can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case and potentially lead to a dismissal or acquittal.

Contact a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you face criminal charges in Pennsylvania, you need and deserve a strong defense. The right evidence can make all the difference in your case. Chieppor & Egner, LLC can review your situation, identify useful evidence, and develop an intelligent defense strategy to protect your rights. Call us today at (717) 912-8369 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case with our attentive lawyers.