What is the standard for admissibility of lay opinion?

• A. A layperson may give opinion if it is rationally based on perception and helpful to understanding
• B. Lay opinions are never admissible in court
• C. Lay opinions may be admitted only if they are based on professional expertise
• D. A layperson may give opinion if it is rationally based on perception and helpful to understanding.

Answer: (D)

Lay opinion testimony is allowed when the witness’s opinion is rationally based on their own perception and would help the trier of fact understand the testimony or a fact at issue. This means a non-expert witness can offer opinions on things they personally observed or experienced—like how fast a car was moving, how someone appeared, or where someone was located—as long as the opinion is grounded in perception and is helpful, not speculative or based on specialized knowledge. The rule does not require professional expertise; it only requires two things: the opinion is based on the witness’s perception, and it would aid understanding. Statements asserting that lay opinions are never admissible or that they must come from expertise do not fit this standard.