Evidence is that ‘thing’ that helps the decision-maker (judge or jury) determine whether a claim is true or not true. It comes in many different forms.
Evidence can be weak or strong, direct or circumstantial. All evidence that is to be given to a jury must be admitted and based on proper foundation.
How much evidence is needed to prove a fact or claim is determined by the standards of proof.
California’s highest standard is ‘Beyond Reasonable Doubt’ and it applies to criminal cases. Criminal law also uses other standards at various stages of criminal litigation.