New York State Court Officers Practice Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Hearsay is often misunderstood in the context of evidence types. It is important to clarify that hearsay is not a type of evidence in itself but rather a rule regarding the admissibility of certain statements made outside of a court context. Hearsay refers specifically to statements made by someone not present in court, which are offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted. Because hearsay lacks direct verification and the opportunity for cross-examination, it is generally inadmissible as evidence unless it falls under a recognized exception.

On the other hand, testimony, physical evidence, and documentary evidence are all accepted forms of evidence in legal proceedings. Testimony involves verbal accounts from witnesses, physical evidence includes tangible items presented to support claims, and documentary evidence consists of written documents that provide proof or corroboration for facts in a case. These types of evidence are utilized to establish facts and persuade the court of a particular perspective, thereby demonstrating their significance in the judicial system.