What type of evidence requires an inference or presumption to establish a fact?

Circumstantial evidence is distinct in that it does not directly prove a fact but instead requires an inference or presumption to connect the dots between the evidence presented and the conclusion drawn. For instance, if a person is seen leaving a crime scene with a wet umbrella right after a rainstorm, while the person did not witness the crime, the inference can be made that the person perhaps left the scene due to their involvement. Therefore, because circumstantial evidence relies on the context and implications surrounding the evidence rather than straightforward proof, it requires an interpretation to establish a fact. This characteristic makes it vital in legal settings where direct evidence may not be available.