Court Interpreter Written Practice Exam

What is testimony?

1. A written statement provided by an attorney

2. Evidence given under oath by a witness

3. A judge's opinion

4. A verbal agreement between parties

The correct answer is: Evidence given under oath by a witness

Testimony is defined as evidence given under oath by a witness during legal proceedings. This definition underscores the importance of the witness’s statement, as it is typically delivered in a courtroom setting, where the witness is sworn in to tell the truth. Testimonies can be pivotal in legal cases, as they provide firsthand accounts or observations related to the matter at hand. In contrast, a written statement provided by an attorney would not necessarily be given under oath, putting it outside the definition of testimony. A judge's opinion represents judicial reasoning rather than the direct evidence of a witness. Lastly, a verbal agreement between parties pertains to contract law rather than courtroom evidence, and does not involve a witness providing sworn statements. Therefore, the option referring to evidence given under oath accurately reflects the concept of testimony in a legal context.