Important Tips for Your Deposition
Posted Sunday, May 3, 2015 by Chris Thayer
While a deposition is made outside of court, it has the importance of in-court testimony. As such, it is important to be careful of what you say and do while being deposed. Your Seattle accident attorneys may help you prepare, but the following provides an overview of what you need to remember during this key time.
What You Should Do during the Deposition
Your deposition can have a major impact on your case. For this reason, you need to take care to act appropriately. Your accident attorneys Seattle will be present during the deposition, and a court reporter will take down the proceedings. The following are things you should do:
- Dress in appropriate attire. This is especially important if the deposition is videotaped.
- Be thoughtful in your answers. Give yourself time to think before answering.
- Answer all questions fully but simply. Don’t include elements of the answer you aren’t asked. Answer simply with “yes,” “no,” and “I don’t know” when appropriate.
- Make sure to tell the truth. Do not lie, for this can damage your case later if your lie is discovered, which almost surely it will.
- Ask for a break when you need it. The deposition may take several hours, and you have a right to take a break if you need to do so.
What You Should Not Do during the Deposition
There are certain things you need to make sure to avoid doing as well. Among these are:
- Do not volunteer any information. Limit your answers to what is asked and no more.
- Don’t argue with the attorney. The defendant’s attorney may ask questions to try to get under your skin. Don’t argue with him if he does this.
- Do not discuss your case with others during a break. If you take a break it is very important that you avoid discussing facts pertinent to the case with family members and loved ones.
- Don’t answer questions if you don’t know the answer. Instead, simply state that you don’t know or don’t remember.
Obtain an Attorney to Represent You
Personal injury cases can be very complicated, and you should strongly consider hiring Seattle accident attorneys who have the experience and knowledge to provide you with effective representation. Call Chris Thayer today at (866) 884-2417.