Legal Definitions - firsthand knowledge

Firsthand knowledge refers to information or facts that an individual has obtained directly through their own senses or personal experience, rather than learning it from someone else or through indirect means. It implies a direct observation of, or participation in, an event or situation.

Here are some examples illustrating firsthand knowledge:

• Example 1: Witnessing an Incident

  A pedestrian is waiting at a crosswalk and directly observes two cars collide at the intersection. When later asked to provide a statement to the police, the pedestrian describes exactly what they saw, including the color of the cars, their direction of travel, and the point of impact.

  Explanation: The pedestrian possesses firsthand knowledge because they personally witnessed the entire event unfold with their own eyes. Their account is based on their direct sensory experience, not on what someone else told them or what they read in a report.

• Example 2: Direct Experience of a Condition

  A homeowner discovers a significant leak in their roof after a heavy rainstorm. They go into their attic, see the water dripping, and observe the damaged insulation and stained wood directly.

  Explanation: The homeowner has firsthand knowledge of the roof leak and its immediate effects because they personally inspected the damage. They directly perceived the water and its impact, rather than relying on a neighbor's description or a contractor's initial assessment.

• Example 3: Professional Assessment

  A certified appraiser visits a property to determine its market value. They walk through every room, inspect the exterior, examine the condition of fixtures, and note any unique features or defects. Based on this direct observation, they formulate their appraisal report.

  Explanation: The appraiser's valuation is based on firsthand knowledge because they personally examined the property. Their assessment is derived from their own direct sensory input and professional judgment applied during the physical inspection, not solely from property records or photographs.