what does it mean when your attorney believes you gave a great deposition

by Madisen Bednar Jr. 6 min read

Can a lawyer ask you a question during a deposition?

This means your lawyer believes you were asked that question earlier in the deposition. If this is correct, the other attorney is trying to get you to answer it differently so if your lawyer tells you to answer then you should just answer again consistently with your previous answer.

What are my rights during a deposition?

Apr 10, 2020 · Having an experienced attorney is vital for those being deposed. The questions what does deposition mean, how does it work, and what should you expect, will all be explained by your attorney. An attorney plays a key role in the …

What to expect during a deposition?

Oct 30, 2014 · If you remember the defense attorney’s goals, review your case with your attorney and follow the four rules proposed here, your deposition will almost certainly be a success. About the Author Steven Palermo is the managing partner for …

What is a deposition in a personal injury case?

Dec 09, 2020 · A deposition is the taking of out-of-court testimony of a witness. After a civil litigation has been filed, each side, as part of the process known as discovery, is permitted to question the other side. This questioning pertains to facts, witnesses, and evidence the other side may intend to use in court proceedings.

What makes a good deposition?

Brief and concise answers are best. If you don't know the answer, “I don't know” is a perfectly good answer. Don't guess, speculate, or play a hunch. A deposition is sworn testimony; only say what you know to be true.

Is a deposition a good thing?

Depositions are often a vital and pivotal part of litigation. A good (or bad) deposition has the ability to sway the case one way or another. ... Keep in mind that depositions are taken under oath. Everything that the deponent says is being recorded by the court reporter and in some cases, by video as well.Nov 30, 2015

Why are depositions important?

One of the most important parts of a lawsuit is the pre-trial discovery phase. ... Depositions are an essential part of the discovery process, because they allow the opposing counsel to obtain important facts that may help their case.May 4, 2018

What does deposition mean in legal terms?

Overview. A deposition is a witness's sworn out-of-court testimony. It is used to gather information as part of the discovery process and, in limited circumstances, may be used at trial. The witness being deposed is called the "deponent."

Do people lie during depositions?

You must answer questions honestly — You will be under oath during a deposition. If you lie, you could be charged with the crime of perjury. Lying can also destroy your credibility as a witness. When you are asked a question, it's best to give a simple, true answer without providing any additional information.Nov 15, 2019

Are depositions scary?

The truth of the matter is that depositions are not nearly as scary as you might think. While depositions can be awkward and there might be some difficult questions for you to answer, if you have a good lawyer preparing you for the deposition, you will be fine.

How does a deposition differ from an actual trial?

While some states have a different process for trial depositions and depositions for discovery, the basic difference is that discovery depositions aim to find out what a witness knows and how his testimony will appear to the court, while trial depositions are taken because a witness may be unavailable to testify in ...

What is an example of deposition?

The most typical example of deposition would be frost. Frost is the deposition of water vapour from humid air or air containing water vapour on to a solid surface. ... Snow is also deposition. The water vapour in the clouds changes directly to ice and skips the liquid phase entirely.

Is deposition a chemical?

In chemistry, deposition occurs when molecules settle out of a solution. Deposition can be viewed as a reverse process to dissolution or particle re-entrainment. It is a phase change from the gaseous state to a solid, without passing through the liquid state, also called re-sublimation.

What is deposition caused by?

Deposition is the geological process in which sediments, soil and rocks are added to a landform or landmass. Wind, ice, water, and gravity transport previously weathered surface material, which, at the loss of enough kinetic energy in the fluid, is deposited, building up layers of sediment.

Are you sworn in for a deposition?

Most importantly, are depositions under oath? Yes, before you begin the deposition, you will be sworn in under an oath. Because of this, any information you share during the deposition must be truthful. Lying during your deposition, whether on purpose or inadvertently, will have serious repercussions.Jun 16, 2020

What is deposition hearing?

What Is a Deposition Hearing? A deposition is a question-and-answer session conducted outside of a courtroom but still under oath. ... Deposition questions can lead to the revelation of relevant documents or other evidence, called discovery, which may be admitted in a summary judgment motion or at trial.Apr 29, 2021

Why is it important to have an attorney for a deposition?

Here are some reasons why seeking legal representation is a good idea: Preparation: The attorney will help prepare you for potential questions the other attorney may ask of you.

Why do we need a deposition?

There are several main reasons for a deposition: Gain information: By questioning a witness, you’ll potentially gain new information that could be relevant to the case. Hold witness accountable: A deposition secures witness testimony and acts as an accountability measure in case they change their story during trial.

How do depositions work?

To better understand depositions and how depositions work, we need to examine the reasons for a deposition. There are several main reasons for a deposition: 1 Gain information: By questioning a witness, you’ll potentially gain new information that could be relevant to the case. 2 Hold witness accountable: A deposition secures witness testimony and acts as an accountability measure in case they change their story during trial. 3 Records testimony: In instances where a witness falls ill, disappears, or dies during the trial, a recorded deposition will still be accessible for court proceedings. 4 Recalling of details: Trial proceedings may take months if not years to commence. A deposition allows the witness to recall information while it’s still fresh in their memories.

What is a deposition in a lawsuit?

What is a deposition, and how does a deposition work? A deposition is a court-mandated testimony during the discovery phase of a civil lawsuit. Those served with a subpoena must provide this testimony, which will be used for the case.

How to dress for a deposition?

Dress Professionally: Maintain a clean and professional appearance for the deposition. Dress as you would if you were going for a job interview. Take Breaks: Since some depositions can take as long as several hours, ensure you take enough breaks.

What is the discovery phase of a lawsuit?

However, if a witness is not related to a party in the lawsuit (third-party), or unwilling to witness, a subpoena will be served. A subpoena legally compels the witness to provide a testimony at a given time and place. Depositions occur during what is known as the discovery phase. The discovery phase is when both sides of ...

Who is Valiente Mott?

The Las Vegas personal injury attorney team at Valiente Mott represents clients dealing with court proceedings, insurance companies, and other legal matters. We believe in providing the best customer service and care to those who need it the most.

Why do attorneys ask questions during depositions?

Your attorney may ask questions of you during the deposition, but typically your attorney will only ask questions of you in order to clarify a confusing answer. Like opposing counsel, your attorney may schedule and take depositions to help build your case. If there are some issues about your case that you consider worrisome, ...

What is a deposition in court?

What Is a Deposition? A deposition is pre-trial oral testimony taken under oath. In a deposition, the opposing attorney (counsel) will ask you various questions, and those questions and your answers will be recorded by an official court reporter. There is little difference between testimony at a deposition and testimony in the courtroom, ...

What is the purpose of a deposition?

Purpose of a Deposition. Depositions are extremely useful to opposing counsel. In a deposition, the opposing counsel will want to find out what you know regarding the issues in your lawsuit so that they can prepare for your testimony in advance of trial. The testimony you give in a deposition may be read at trial, ...

What is the best way to prepare for a deposition?

The following are suggestions to help you prepare to give you deposition: Always tell the truth: Failure to tell the truth in a deposition constitutes perjury, which is a felony. It can also damage your case if the truth comes out at trial.

What to say when you don't know the answer to a question?

Don't guess: If you do not know the answer to a question, you should say that you do not know. You have a right to confer with your lawyer: At any time during the deposition, you will have the right to speak with your attorney privately regarding the question and your answer. Do not hesitate to exercise this right.

What to do if you are asked to supply documents?

If you are asked to supply documents or information, refer the opposing counsel to your attorney. Do not reach into your pocket for a social security card, driver’s license, or any other document, unless your attorney requests that you do so.

What to do if you don't know all the details?

You aren't expected to know all the details: If you do not know all the details, relax. Simply state what you do know and leave out the details. Do not give an answer that requires you to consult records not available at the deposition or requiring you to consult your friends and associates for the answer.

What is the goal of a deposition?

Most defense attorneys have two main goals during a deposition. The first goal is to get your complete story. Questions will generally range from how the accident happened, to what your injuries and treatment were, to what types of problems you are having today as a result of your accident.

What is a deposition in a court case?

A deposition is the process in which a witness is asked questions under oath by an attorney. Testifying at a deposition is often a mysterious and nerve racking event for most people. To give a successful deposition it is important to understand a couple of things. First, you need to know what the defense attorney is trying to accomplish ...

Who is Steven Palermo?

Steven Palermo is the managing partner for Palermo Law, Long Island’s Personal Injury Law Firm. He has been helping people receive compensation for their injuries for over 21 years. He focuses on cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, construction accidents and slip and fall injuries.

Is it normal to be nervous when you testify?

Nervousness, however, is normal and usually passes after a few minutes of questions.

What are the 4 commandments?

I refer to these as the four commandments. 1) Tell the truth. Nothing hurts a case more then a lie. Even a white lie can kill your case. Once you are caught in a lie your credibility is ruined. While the truth sometimes hurts a case, it is never as bad as a lie. Every case has a weakness, so we don’t run from them with a lie, ...

Is it normal to be nervous during a deposition?

Nervousness, however, is normal and usually passes after a few minutes of questions. Don’t be afraid to be a little nervous. If you remember the defense attorney’s goals, review your case with your attorney and follow the four rules proposed here, your deposition will almost certainly be a success.

Is a deposition a trial?

No other explanation is necessary. Always remember a deposition is not a trial. If your case goes to trial you will have an opportunity to tell your entire story through much friendlier direct examination by your attorney. 4) My fourth rule is to keep calm. Don’t get agitated by the defense attorney’s questions.

What is a deposition in court?

A deposition is the taking of out-of-court testimony of a witness. After a civil litigation has been filed, each side, as part of the process known as discovery, is permitted to question the other side. This questioning pertains to facts, witness es, and evidence the other side may intend to use in court proceedings. During the deposition, one side’s attorney asks a witness a series of questions as to the witness ’s knowledge of facts, circumstances, and events relevant to the case.

What is the purpose of a deposition?

The purpose of a deposition is to obtain answers to the attorney’s questions, from a witness, who is sworn in, under oath. During the deposition, a court reporter takes notes of the proceeding. These notes consist of word-for-word recording of what the witness says.These notes are then assembled into a deposition transcript.

How long do witnesses have to answer questions?

Witnesses must be prepared to answer questions for a potential period of several hours. During this time, the attorneys may object to the form of each others’ questions.

Can an attorney coach a witness?

The attorney may not “coach” the witness, either before the deposition or during it.To “coach” a witness is to tell a witness how to answer a question before the witness has had an opportunity to speak. A witness’s answer must be the product of their own thinking.

What is the basis of an objection?

Questions that suggest or lead a witness to an answer, or that imply a fact that has not been established, can serve as the basis of an objection. While the attorneys are speaking to each other, the witness should not be speaking. The witness should answer the questions being asked of them,and only those questions.

Can you refuse a deposition?

Refusing a deposition is typically not permitted. A witness receives notice that their deposition will be taken through a document called a Notice of Deposition.This document contains information about the location, date,and time of the deposition.

Can a witness review a transcript?

Witnesses are permitted to review their transcript testimony. If a witness believes the testimony was inaccurately recorded, the witness may note perceived inaccuracies, and what the witness maintains their actual testimony was. Preparation for a deposition is of significant importance.

What to expect during a deposition?

A deposition is an opportunity for an attorney to question a witness or party to a case, while that person is under oath and while a court reporter is making a record of all of the questions, answers and statements made during the deposition .

What is the rule of deposition?

Therefore the better you come across to the attorney, the more you will help your case. Rule 12. Leave your emotions at home.

What to do if you don't understand a question?

Rule 8. If you do not understand the question being asked, ask the attorney to rephrase the question or to explain a word or words that are confusing you. You are not required to and you should not answer a question that you do not fully understand. Rule 9.

Can you win a deposition?

Rule 1. Remember, you cannot win your case at your deposition. While this is probably the first opportunity that you have had to explain your side of the controversy, there is no judge or jury to decide your case at the deposition. Providing incorrect or too much information can harm your case.

Can a judge be present at a deposition?

There is no judge or jury present. your attorney (or the attorney defending the deposition, if you are a witness and not a party) may make objections. These objections are to preserve the record. You may be told by the attorney to go ahead and answer the question despite an objection.

What is a deposition in court?

Depositions are statements given by a person under oath for purposes of litigation. Unlike trial testimony, depositions are conducted out of court, usually with only the witness, attorneys, and a court reporter present. Because most of our clients have never given a deposition, and will never give one again, we have prepared this short guide ...

Why are depositions videotaped?

These types of depositions are also often videotaped to provide a more realistic picture of your testimony to the jury. The evidence rules are somewhat different for these types of depositions, and so you should ask your attorney for specific advice if you are giving an evidentiary deposition.

How long does a deposition last?

Depositions can last from just a few minutes, if the attorneys are interested in only a few facts, to multiple days in cases where the facts are particularly complex. Most depositions for personal injury cases take between one and a half and three hours, but may last longer depending on the nature of the injury.

What to do if you don't know the answer to a question?

Don't guess or speculate – If you don't know the answer to a question, don't guess or speculate. If you cannot remember something, you cannot be forced to provide an answer. Even if the questioning attorney ridicules you for not knowing an answer, you should always stand your ground rather than make a guess.

What happens if you don't understand a question?

If you answer a question that you don't really understand, your answer is going to be in the record and you may not have a chance to explain later that you didn't understand it. Or you may be prohibited from explaining later that you didn't understand because you should have done that at the time of questioning.

What to do if your lawyer doubts you?

Tell the Truth. If your lawyer doubts you in the consultation, or doesn't think you have a case, while that may change over time, getting over an initial disbelief is very hard. You have to prove your case. Your attorney is not your witness. They are your advocate - but you are responsible for coming up with proof.

What happens if you don't pay your lawyer?

If you don't pay your lawyer on the day of trial, or however you have agreed to, then while he or she may be obligated by other ethical duties to do his/her best, they won't be motivated by sympathy for you, and it will show in court.

Why do people hire lawyers?

Most people hired attorneys because they don't want to sit in court. Well, truth be told, neither do I. The difference between lawyer and client is that the lawyer expects it to take a long time and understands. The client typically thinks it's unjustified. So, your hard truth is that each case takes time. Be patient.

Why is credibility important in court?

Credibility is one of the most important things in this world - and most important in a courtroom. If you care enough only to wear sweats to the courthouse, then the judge will see that you don't care, and that will be reflected in their desire to help you, listen to you, and decide in your favor. Step it up.

Do juries get it right?

While juries usually get it right, sometimes, it's not about whether a particular matter is emotional or simple, complicated or straightforward. Sometimes people make decisions on who has the nicer suit, or who is more pleasant to deal with. So even if your case is good or even if it's not so strong.

Can a lawyer take your money?

While lawyers can certainly take your money and your time and we can file a case that will be very hard to win, if you don't care enough about your life to get a contract, the judge is not very likely to be on your side. At least, not automatically. Oral contracts are extremely hard to prove. What are the terms.

What Is A Deposition?

  • A deposition is pre-trial oral testimonytaken under oath. In a deposition, the opposing attorney (counsel) will ask you various questions, and those questions and your answers will be recorded by an official court reporter. There is little difference between testimony at a deposition and testimony in the courtroom, except that there is no judge presiding during a deposition. What thi…
See more on findlaw.com

Purpose of A Deposition

  • Depositions are extremely useful to opposing counsel. In a deposition, the opposing counsel will want to find out what you know regarding the issues in your lawsuit so that they can prepare for your testimony in advanceof trial. The testimony you give in a deposition may be read at trial, so opposing counsel hopes to catch you in a lie or omission, because, if they were to do so, they co…
See more on findlaw.com

Suggestions For Preparation

  • The following are suggestions to help you prepare to give you deposition: 1. Always tell the truth: Failure to tell the truth in a deposition constitutes perjury, which is a felony. It can also damage your case if the truth comes out at trial. 2. Listen to the question: Do not answer any question unless you hear it clearly and completely. You may ask the attorney or the court reporter to repe…
See more on findlaw.com