What defines the criteria for evidence to be relevant to the matter in issue?

The criteria for evidence to be relevant to the matter in issue is defined by materiality and relevance. Materiality refers to whether the evidence can influence the determination of the case or the issues at hand; it must have a logical connection to the facts being investigated. Relevance pertains to the relationship between the evidence and the specific issue being considered, ensuring that only pertinent information is presented to aid in resolving the matter. Together, these two components establish whether evidence can be used effectively in a legal context to support or undermine a claim or defense.

In contrast, the other options focus on attributes that, while important in certain contexts, do not directly address the criteria for relevance in legal terms. Credibility and reliability relate to the trustworthiness of evidence or its source, while consistency and accuracy emphasize the unwavering nature and correctness of the information presented. Clarity and specificity, on the other hand, deal more with how well the evidence is conveyed or articulated rather than its appropriateness for influencing the legal issue at hand.