What does the term "testimony" refer to in legal proceedings?

The term "testimony" in legal proceedings specifically refers to oral evidence that a witness provides during a trial or hearing. This is an integral part of the judicial process, as witnesses share firsthand knowledge or experience related to the case, contributing to the establishment of facts and evidence that the court must consider. Testimony can include answers to questions posed by attorneys and can help illuminate key aspects of the case from different perspectives.

The focus on oral communication distinguishes testimony from other forms of evidence, such as documents or physical materials. While written statements and various types of evidence can support a case, they do not fall under the definition of testimony, which is inherently verbal in nature. Thus, understanding testimony as an oral conveyance of information highlights its unique role in courtroom dynamics and the pursuit of truth in legal settings.