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Simple English definitions for legal terms
witness
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A quick definition of witness:
A witness is someone who saw or heard something happen and can tell others about it. They might also sign a document to confirm that someone else signed it. In a court case, a witness might be asked to talk about what they saw or heard. They can only give their own opinion if it's based on what they saw or heard, and not on any special knowledge they have. A witness might be called to court by the judge or by someone else involved in the case.
A more thorough explanation:
A witness is someone who has direct knowledge of an event or situation. They can provide information about what they saw, heard, or experienced. A witness can also be someone who confirms the authenticity of a signature on a document by adding their own signature.
In legal proceedings, a witness may be called to testify under oath. They must have firsthand knowledge or expert evidence to offer. A lay witness, who is not an expert, can only offer an opinion based on their perception and if it is helpful to understand or determine a fact in issue.
- An eyewitness to a car accident can provide details about what happened.
- A notary public can act as a witness to the signing of a legal document.
- An expert witness, such as a doctor, can provide specialized knowledge in a medical malpractice case.
These examples illustrate how witnesses can provide important information in various situations, from everyday events to legal proceedings.