How does a layperson balance the fatwas of scholars when they differ, especially if one of them mentions an evidence but is less trusted, while the other does not mention an evidence but is more trusted? And is the layperson obligated to request evidence from the trusted scholar whom he follows?

It is obligatory for the common person, who lacks the ability to understand evidence and rulings, to follow a trustworthy scholar. If scholars differ, they should follow the one they deem most reliable. The mufti is not obligated to state the evidence to the questioner, and the common person should not demand proof from the mufti.

There are two types of knowledge:

1. What is known by both the elite and the common people, and is necessarily known from the religion (mutawatir). In this, imitation is not permissible, such as the number of rak'ahs, the prohibition of marrying mothers, and adultery. 2. What is known specifically by the elite, and people in this regard are of three types: the mujtahid (independent jurist), the common person, and the scholar who has not reached the rank of ijtihad.

The pure common person must follow scholars in all branches of Islamic law. Ibn Abd al-Barr narrated a consensus on this, and that they are the intended meaning of Allah's saying: {So ask the people of the message if you do not know} [An-Nahl: 43].