Which statement best describes lay opinion testimony?

Which statement best describes lay opinion testimony?

• A. It must be based on perception
• B. It may include opinions requiring specialized knowledge
• C. It is not permitted if it involves perception
• D. It may be based on perception if helpful and not requiring specialized knowledge

Answer: (D)

Lay opinion testimony is allowed when the opinion is rationally based on the witness’s perception and is helpful to the jury in understanding the witness’s testimony or determining a factual issue, and it cannot rely on specialized knowledge. The statement that best describes this is that it may be based on perception if it is helpful and does not require specialized knowledge. This reflects the rule that a lay witness can offer inferences drawn from their own perceptions, as long as those inferences aid the fact-finder and don’t depend on expert expertise. It’s not correct to say lay opinions must always be based on perception or that they can involve specialized knowledge, and perception can indeed be a foundation for lay opinions.

Lay opinion testimony is allowed when the opinion is rationally based on the witness’s perception and is helpful to the jury in understanding the witness’s testimony or determining a factual issue, and it cannot rely on specialized knowledge. The statement that best describes this is that it may be based on perception if it is helpful and does not require specialized knowledge. This reflects the rule that a lay witness can offer inferences drawn from their own perceptions, as long as those inferences aid the fact-finder and don’t depend on expert expertise. It’s not correct to say lay opinions must always be based on perception or that they can involve specialized knowledge, and perception can indeed be a foundation for lay opinions.