Which statement is true about opinion testimony?

Which statement is true about opinion testimony?

• A. It involves speculation about what a witness would have observed
• B. It is always based on documented facts
• C. It excludes any speculation
• D. It is limited to lay observations

Answer: (A)

Opinion testimony goes beyond mere facts and lets a witness express inferences, interpretations, or conclusions drawn from what they perceived. This can include thoughtful speculation about what the witness would have observed under certain circumstances, because such opinions help the fact-finder understand the significance of events. It isn’t limited to what is documented or to lay observations only—perception and, when appropriate, expertise can support these opinions.

Opinion testimony goes beyond mere facts and lets a witness express inferences, interpretations, or conclusions drawn from what they perceived. This can include thoughtful speculation about what the witness would have observed under certain circumstances, because such opinions help the fact-finder understand the significance of events. It isn’t limited to what is documented or to lay observations only—perception and, when appropriate, expertise can support these opinions.