Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Items that demonstrate or illustrate something to the jury in the courtroom, such as models and charts, are referred to as what?

1. Explanatory Evidence

2. Demonstrative Evidence

3. Testimonial Evidence

4. Circumstantial Evidence

The correct answer is: Demonstrative Evidence

The correct answer, demonstrative evidence, refers to items that visually aid in conveying information to the jury during a trial. This type of evidence is used to clarify or enhance the understanding of the case by providing physical representations of concepts or facts. Examples include models, diagrams, charts, and photographs that help illustrate the context of the evidence being presented. Demonstrative evidence is particularly important in cases where complex information needs to be made more accessible or where spatial relationships and physical characteristics are key to understanding the evidence. Its role in the courtroom is to support the verbal testimony provided by witnesses and provide a visual context that can be easier for jurors to grasp. Other types of evidence mentioned serve different purposes. Explanatory evidence, while somewhat similar, is typically concerned with providing additional explanations rather than serving as a demonstrative tool. Testimonial evidence involves statements made by witnesses under oath, focusing on verbal accounts rather than visual aids. Circumstantial evidence consists of indirect evidence that requires inference to connect it to a conclusion, rather than providing direct proof or illustrations.