Which type of witness is restricted to presenting only factual evidence?

A lay witness is restricted to presenting only factual evidence based on their personal knowledge and observations. They provide testimony regarding what they have directly seen, heard, or experienced, rather than offering opinions or interpretations. This type of witness is essential in the legal process, as they help establish basic facts of a case without delving into specialized knowledge or expert analysis.

In contrast, an expert witness uses specialized knowledge, skills, or experience to interpret information or provide opinions that help the court understand complex matters beyond the average person's comprehension. A character witness speaks to the traits or qualities of another individual, providing insight into their moral character and behavioral tendencies, often affecting the perception of that person's credibility or intentions in a case. A professional witness may have training or credentials; however, they do not have a formal classification within legal terminology, and their role often overlaps with either expert or lay testimony depending on the context.

Thus, the lay witness's ability to speak solely to what they have directly observed makes them distinct in the court system, reinforcing the importance of factual evidence in legal proceedings.