What is meant by "testimony"?

Testimony refers to a formal written or spoken statement provided by a witness under oath in a court of law. This statement is crucial as it serves to convey firsthand information or observations related to the case at hand, and it can significantly influence the outcome of legal proceedings. The process of delivering testimony is typically structured and occurs during a trial, where witnesses recount their experiences or knowledge about the matter being adjudicated. This formal aspect separates testimony from other forms of communication, such as informal discussions or evidence gathering.

Other options describe different concepts; for example, an informal discussion about a case does not have the binding legal implications or structure associated with testimony. Similarly, the decision made by the judge and the evidence gathered during a trial represent other facets of the legal process but do not encapsulate the meaning of testimony itself.