What is 'witness testimony' in a legal proceeding?

Witness testimony refers specifically to the evidence provided by a person who has firsthand knowledge or information relevant to the case. This testimony is delivered under oath, which legally binds the witness to tell the truth. The significance of witness testimony lies in its ability to convey personal accounts and observations that can support or challenge the claims made in a legal proceeding.

Documents presented in court serve as physical evidence and can include contracts, photographs, or other written materials, but they do not constitute testimony. A lawyer's argument before a judge is known as a legal argument or plea, which is distinct from the personal accounts or statements given by witnesses. Finally, a decision made by a jury refers to the verdict after deliberation, separate from the testimonies of witnesses, which are just one part of the evidence presented during the trial.

Therefore, witness testimony is critical in establishing facts and providing clarity in legal matters, making it a fundamental aspect of the judicial process.