What is a defining feature of a lay witness in legal proceedings?

A defining feature of a lay witness in legal proceedings is that they can provide factual testimony without needing to have expert status. Lay witnesses typically offer observations based on their personal experience or knowledge relevant to the case. They can share what they directly saw, heard, or experienced, making their testimonies valuable in establishing facts without requiring specialized training or expertise.

For example, a lay witness might describe events they observed during an accident or provide background on a situation they were involved in, helping to clarify points of fact for the court. This contrasts with expert witnesses, who are called to provide opinions based on specialized knowledge or experience in a certain field. The ability of lay witnesses to give straightforward, factual testimony is essential for the legal process, as it helps establish a foundation upon which the case is built.