Legal Definitions - layperson

A layperson is an individual who does not possess specialized professional knowledge or training in a particular field. In a legal context, this term specifically refers to someone who is not a lawyer, judge, or other legal professional. It emphasizes their lack of formal legal education, licensing, or extensive practical experience within the legal system.

• Example 1: Jury Duty
  Imagine a group of citizens selected to serve on a jury for a civil lawsuit. Each juror is considered a layperson because they are not trained legal experts like the judge or the attorneys presenting the case. Their role is to listen to the evidence and arguments, and then apply the law as instructed by the judge, using their common sense and understanding rather than specialized legal knowledge.

• Example 2: Witness Testimony
  Consider a situation where a person observes a crime and is later called to testify in court. This individual is a layperson witness. They can provide factual accounts of what they saw or heard, but they are generally not permitted to offer expert legal opinions, such as whether a particular action constituted negligence, because they lack the professional legal qualifications to do so.

• Example 3: Consulting an Attorney
  Suppose someone is starting a small business and needs to draft a contract with a supplier. They seek advice from a business attorney to ensure the contract is legally sound. In this scenario, the business owner is the layperson, relying on the attorney's specialized legal expertise to navigate the complexities of contract law and protect their business interests.