What phrase indicates that the officer may not answer a question during testimony?

The phrase that indicates an officer may not answer a question during testimony is "sustained." This term is used in court when a judge agrees with an objection raised by an attorney, which typically means that the question posed to the witness is not permissible or appropriate under the rules of evidence. When an objection is sustained, the witness is instructed not to answer the question, as it may be irrelevant, leading to speculation, or otherwise inadmissible. This ruling helps maintain the integrity of the legal process by ensuring only relevant and appropriate information is presented to the court.

The other phrases do not indicate that a question cannot be answered. "Irrelevant" refers to information that does not pertain to the case at hand but does not necessarily apply in the context of a specific ruling regarding testimony. "Dismissed" usually refers to a legal case that is terminated before it goes to trial, and "overruled" indicates that the judge disagrees with an objection, allowing the question to be answered. Thus, "sustained" is the correct phrase associated with not answering a question.