In legal contexts, what type of evidence is computer-generated data considered until ruled otherwise by a judge?

In legal contexts, computer-generated data is often treated as hearsay until it can be authenticated and the reliability of the data can be established to the satisfaction of the court. Hearsay refers to statements made outside of the court that are offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted and typically cannot be used as evidence unless it meets certain legal exceptions.

Computer-generated data can initially be seen as lacking direct knowledge or observation by a witness, making it susceptible to hearsay challenges. The party presenting such data must demonstrate its authenticity and reliability through expert testimony or other means to ensure that it qualifies as admissible evidence.

Other types of evidence, such as direct evidence or circumstantial evidence, require a direct link to the fact in question or an implication based on surrounding circumstances, respectively, which computer-generated data does not fulfill until it is properly verified. Therefore, categorizing it as hearsay acknowledges the necessity for further validation before it can be used in support of a legal claim.