What distinguishes opinion testimony from other forms of testimony?

Opinion testimony is characterized by the use of the witness's personal beliefs or interpretations rather than just the presentation of factual evidence. This form of testimony is significant in legal contexts because it can help clarify complex issues that require expertise or a specialized understanding.

When a witness provides opinion testimony, they may be drawing inferences from the facts at hand to express a view on what those facts imply or suggest. This inference is essential, as it distinguishes opinion testimony from factual testimony, which strictly adheres to recounting specific events or experiences without personal interpretation.

In situations where the nature of evidence or the impact of certain circumstances is not straightforward, opinion testimony can bridge the gap between raw data and legal understanding, helping the judge or jury interpret the significance of the facts presented. Thus, the reliance on inference in opinion testimony is what fundamentally sets it apart from other forms of testimony.