How to Prepare for a Deposition and What You Should Expect

When you file a personal injury claim, you, the defendant, witness, or any other party with information about your case, may need to attend a deposition. The session can be daunting, challenging, and intimidating. For this reason, you can hire an experienced lawyer, such as the Brown Law Firm, LLC, to guide and help you through the process. The lawyer can advise you on how to handle depositions, help prepare, and show you what happens. Here is a comprehensive guide about what you should expect. 

What is a Deposition?

A deposition is a formal session where an attorney questions the party or witnesses as they provide answers and facts about the case. It is an oral examination taken under oath. The court officer records the details.  

A deposition usually takes one to two hours and happens outside the court, mainly in the lawyer’s office. The information obtained during deposition is used as evidence in the case

What Happens During a Deposition?

Before the session begins, the lawyer will ask you to answer the questions clearly and truthfully. When the session begins, the defendant’s attorney will typically ask you questions. You will answer the questions verbally. If you hire an attorney, they may follow up with their questions. 

During deposit, attorneys may make limited objections as the questioning continues. The objections usually challenge a certain question, and you may need to answer it unless your attorney tells you not to answer. 

During deposition, you may need to answer questions about the following:

• Health information
• Personal information
• Information about the accident
• Description of your injuries and losses
• Effects of the injuries on your life
• Information about other witnesses

While you cannot look to your attorney when answering the questions, you can have a seamless session if you speak to the attorney before attending the deposition. The court may use the recorded information later if your case goes to trial. 

How to Prepare for Deposition 

Preparation is essential before attending the deposition. It helps you get ready for the session. Here are tips to help you prepare. 

Prepare

If you are headed to a deposition but do not have an attorney, consider retaining their services as soon as possible. The attorney can guide you in reviewing documents and discussing your testimony. 

Answer Truthfully  

A deposition is a serious business. You are expected to give honest answers because anything contrary to the truth may work against you in the long run. If you don’t remember some details, tell it as it is instead of guessing. 

Don’t Go Beyond the Questions

Focus on answering the questions without giving out more information about anything that comes across your mind. Answer the question straight to the point without diving into other details. 

Be Professional 

The court officer records everything that happens during the deposition. For this reason, it is imperative to remain professional when answering the questions. Try to wear comfortable and neat clothes and shoes. 

Stay Calm

The process can be stressful and tiring, especially when you have to answer a series of questions. The sessions may also become heated. No matter the atmosphere within the room, try to remain calm and avoid sounding defensive or apologetic.  

Talk to an Experienced Attorney to Discuss the Deposition 

If you are expected to attend a deposition, be sure to understand what the session entails and familiarize yourself with what you are expected to do. An experienced lawyer with in-depth information about deposition can help you have a seamless session. Experienced lawyers at the Brown Law Firm can guide you, prepare you for deposition, and preserve your interest. Contact us today for a free consultation.