Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

Which class of evidence is considered the least certain?

1. Indispensable Evidence

2. Primary Evidence

3. Secondary Evidence

4. Direct Evidence

The correct answer is: Secondary Evidence

Secondary evidence is characterized by its inherent uncertainty compared to other classes of evidence. In legal and surveying contexts, secondary evidence refers to information that can infer or support a claim but does not directly substantiate it. For example, hearsay or testimonials about a fact fall into this category since they are based on secondhand information rather than firsthand observation. This category typically arises when primary evidence—such as original documents or direct observations—is unavailable or impossible to obtain. Therefore, while secondary evidence can still play a valuable role in forming conclusions or supporting a case, it lacks the direct, unequivocal affirmations found in primary evidence. This makes secondary evidence the least certain class of evidence, as it relies on interpretation and assumptions rather than direct facts or experiences.