What does the term 'lay witness' refer to in legal context?

In the legal context, a 'lay witness' refers to an individual who provides testimony based on their personal knowledge, observations, or experiences, without offering expert opinions or specialized knowledge. Lay witnesses recount factual information and their perceptions of events or situations they have directly witnessed. This type of testimony is crucial in legal proceedings as it helps establish facts and context for the case.

The distinction lies in the nature of the testimony provided: lay witnesses cannot draw conclusions or provide opinions that require specialized knowledge, which is the realm of expert witnesses. Lay testimony is rooted in the individual's direct experiences, making it accessible and relatable to the jury or judge. This is why the correct understanding of a lay witness centers on their role in recounting factual information rather than making interpretations or expert judgments.