weight of evidence
The weight of evidence refers to the believability or persuasiveness of evidence in terms of its probative value , not the quantity or amount. It is determined by its effect in inducing belief , rather than by mathematics. In State v. Thomas , the weight of evidence was shown to involve the tendency of credible evidence in a trial to support one side over the other. It represents the degree to which evidence convinces triers of fact to either accept or reject a factual assertion. This can apply to both a single piece of evidence and the cumulative effect of the entire collection of evidence presented on an issue , indicating its overall strength and reliability in proving or disproving a particular fact . This evaluation helps in making legal or factual determinations in judicial or administrative proceedings .
[Last reviewed in July of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team ]
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