Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A statement of fact is a type of behavior that asserts or implies the existence or nonexistence of a fact. It can be a specific statement that a fact exists or an opinion that implies the existence of some facts that led the person to hold that opinion.
For example, if a witness testifies that they saw the defendant at the scene of the crime, that is a statement of fact. If a witness testifies that they believe the defendant is guilty based on their experience as a police officer, that is an opinion that implies the existence of certain facts.
Other types of testimony related to statement of fact include:
It's important to note that false testimony, or testimony that is untrue, is not the same as perjury, which requires a state-of-mind element. False testimony does not denote a crime.
Overall, a statement of fact is a type of behavior that asserts or implies the existence or nonexistence of a fact, and it can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.