What type of witness is allowed to provide opinion testimony during a deposition?

An expert witness is allowed to provide opinion testimony during a deposition because they possess specialized knowledge, skills, or experience in a particular field relevant to the case. Their opinions are based on their expertise and can help the court understand complex issues that laypersons may not be qualified to evaluate. Expert witnesses can draw upon their qualifications to interpret evidence, explain technical concepts, or forecast outcomes based on their assessments, which is essential for the jury or judge's understanding of the subject matter.

In contrast, lay witnesses can only testify about facts they have observed and cannot provide opinions unless they are rationally based on their perception and helpful in understanding their testimony. Character witnesses provide insight into a person's character but do not offer opinions based on professional knowledge. Fact witnesses testify about specific events or occurrences they have directly experienced and are limited to factual accounts without offering interpretations or opinions based on specialized knowledge. Thus, the unique capability of an expert witness to form and present opinions substantiates their role in legal proceedings.