What is defined as something legally submitted to a tribunal to ascertain the truth of a matter?

The correct answer, evidence, refers to any material or information presented in a legal proceeding to establish the truth regarding a particular issue in question. Evidence can take many forms, including documents, witness testimonies, physical objects, or expert opinions. In a court of law, the function of evidence is critical, as it serves to support or refute claims made by parties involved in a case.

Evidence is essential because it helps the tribunal—such as a judge or jury—evaluate the facts and make informed decisions based on the information presented. What sets evidence apart from opinions or hearsay is that it must adhere to strict legal standards regarding its admissibility and relevance, ensuring that only pertinent and reliable information is considered in a legal context.

Regarding the other options, an incident report is a specific type of document that may contain evidence but does not encompass all forms of evidence presented in court. An opinion, while it may provide insight, does not carry the same weight in legal terms as admissible evidence, since it may not be based on fact or corroborated data. Hearsay involves statements made outside of the court that are presented for the truth of the matter asserted and is generally not admissible as evidence due to reliability concerns.