A deposition allows an attorney to ask individuals questions in preparation for a court case.
However, they are not as scary as they may sound!
Here are 7 tips for your deposition!
1.) Be Truthful
A deposition is on the record so you are required to tell the truth. Most questions in a deposition you will have already answered previously with your attorney. So relax and answer each question truthfully.
2.) Don’t argue your case
There is no need to be defensive in a deposition. This a time to gather information and is not the time to convince anyone how good your case is. An argumentative attitude could actually hurt your cause. You and your attorney will have the opportunity to argue your case as it moves forward.
3.) Wear nice clothes
For a deposition you want to present yourself as a confident and trustworthy person. So dress the part.
- For men, wear slacks and a long sleeve dress shirt.
- Women should wear a conservative dress or pants and a dress shirt.
- It is best to wear a pair of dress shoes.
4.) Listen
Listen closely and make sure you understand the questions . If you are not 100% sure ask for clarification or to repeat the question. If you understand the question but do not know the answer it is perfectly acceptable to say you do not know!
5.) No need to give extra information
A deposition is not the time to be chatty. It is best to keep your answers as short as possible and provide only the information they are asking. Be concise and to the point.
6.) It’s okay to take a break!
Feel free to take a break to calm down, use the restroom, or get a snack or drink. Depositions can hours and it is important that you are comfortable and collected.
7.) Heed your attorney’s advice
Your attorney is your advocate during the deposition. So listen and heed their advice and direction as they are on your side.
A deposition is a legal interview to get the facts of your case. Follow your attorney’s instructions about etiquette and be truthful when and you will be fine!