Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

Corroborative evidence is the type of evidence that supports previous testimony in a different form. This evidence serves to confirm and strengthen the initial testimony without necessarily repeating it. For instance, if a witness testifies about observing an event, corroborative evidence could include photographs, videos, or physical evidence that aligns with their account. The importance of corroborative evidence lies in its ability to enhance the credibility of the original testimony by providing additional context or verification from independent sources. Cumulative evidence, while related, refers to evidence that merely repeats what has already been established, rather than providing new forms of support. Testimonial evidence specifically refers to statements made by witnesses under oath, and documentary evidence consists of documents used to substantiate facts in a case. Neither of these directly addresses the function of corroborating or supporting existing testimony. Thus, corroborative evidence is uniquely suited to reinforcing prior statements with differing forms of support.