What is the term used for evidence that contradicts a claim?

The term that refers to evidence that contradicts a claim is known as "refutation." Refutation specifically involves presenting evidence or arguments that effectively disprove or counter a particular assertion or belief. In the context of legal terminology, it is crucial for parties in a case to challenge claims made by the opposing side, and the process of refutation allows a party to undermine the validity of those claims through logical reasoning or factual evidence.

While "contradiction" also implies opposing statements or evidence, it does not necessarily have the same formal connotation in legal contexts as refutation, which is more specifically about discrediting. "Disproof" is another term that suggests invalidating a claim, but it can be less commonly used in the specific context of legal arguments compared to refutation. "Denial" refers to the act of asserting that something is not true, but it does not directly imply the use of evidence to counter a claim, making "refutation" the more precise term in this context.