These characteristics refer to features of evidence that are shared by other items of the same class.

Class characteristics refer to features of evidence that are shared by other items of the same category or group. They are not unique to a single item but instead denote a commonality among multiple items that fall into the same classification. For example, the tread pattern of a shoe type can be considered a class characteristic since many shoes with that design will exhibit the same tread pattern, thereby linking them to a broader class of footwear.

In forensic analysis, identifying class characteristics can help narrow down potential sources of evidence to a specific group, making it easier to identify items that may have a common origin. This contrasts with individual characteristics, which are unique to a particular item, thereby allowing for more definitive connections to a specific source. Understanding the distinction between these categories is crucial in fields like forensic science, where evidence classification informs investigative conclusions.