Things to Note About a Deposition

You may be a witness in the case or need to give clear statements about an incident. Likely, someone will need you for a deposition sooner or later.

It can get overwhelming if it’s your first time going through this legal proceeding. Here are some things to note about a deposition.

You Have a Long Day Ahead

Of course, your lawyer may hire deposition summary services, but you still need to prepare for a long day. Depositions can take at least seven hours. Before then, you’ll have meetings with your attorney that could take a couple of hours.

Depending on the court and state, you may get off with less than a seven-hour deposition. It can get taxing after a while because you’re in a room just answering questions all day. Get some sleep to help you feel rejuvenated and focus on the task.

Meet With Your Attorney Before the Deposition

As previously stated, meet with your attorney before the deposition. They can do a practice run of what you can expect during your testimony. It’ll help prepare you for the wave of questions thrown at you.

Your attorney has more experience dealing with depositions than you. He knows that it’s better that you meet up ahead of time to avoid fumbling over questions later. A quality lawyer is on your side to help you present a truthful case.

You’re Out of Your Element

It’s not something that you do every day over a cup of coffee. Also, you’re doing a pre-trial testimony in the opposing lawyer’s office or another place. You have to take this deposition seriously because it’s the foundation of a trial.

You might get to share everything you want with the attorney. Keep everything factual to help it go as smoothly as possible. It can make an awkward situation feel a little comfortable.

Be smart and follow your lawyer’s instructions to help you make a deposition session more manageable.

Your Job Isn’t Over After the Pre-Trial Statement

It’s not over once you’ve completed your pre-trial testimony. Of course, you want to take a breather after this initial meeting. However, your attorney will send you a copy of the transcript to review it.

You want to become familiar with it because you never know if they’ll ask for additional documents or declarations. Sometimes, you’ll need this information for trial.

Make accurate statements during the deposition to help you in a worst-case scenario.