Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2025

What type of evidence is based on something said by a third party?

1. Direct evidence

2. Documentary evidence

3. Hearsay evidence

4. Physical evidence

The correct answer is: Hearsay evidence

Hearsay evidence refers to statements made by a person who is not present in court to testify. This type of evidence is based on what someone else said outside of the court, and it is often considered unreliable because the original speaker is not available for cross-examination. Hearsay can be problematic in legal proceedings because it lacks the chance for the opposing party to challenge the accuracy or credibility of the statement. Understanding hearsay is crucial in legal contexts because it helps delineate what constitutes acceptable evidence. In contrast, direct evidence involves firsthand observations or testimonies from witnesses, documentary evidence consists of written or recorded materials, and physical evidence pertains to tangible objects presented in court. Each of these forms of evidence has distinct characteristics and implications for legal proceedings, particularly in relation to their reliability and the ability to scrutinize their origins directly.