In the immediate aftermath of a serious injury, legal action may be far from your mind. But as the ramifications of your injuries and damages become more apparent, when such injuries and damages are significant, receiving appropriate compensation will be near impossible to achieve without professional legal help.
Irrespective of what may be promised by those without experience or have a tendency to mislead, the process of taking a case to trial or settlement, when pursued diligently and correctly, can take months to years. When a resolution for fair compensation cannot be accomplished without filing a lawsuit, one critically important stage of the legal process is the deposition. Understanding what a deposition entails is crucial and can help alleviate some of the uncertainty many clients feel about the legal process.
What is a Deposition?
Simply put, a deposition is a formal statement given under oath outside of the courtroom. It typically takes place in a lawyer’s office and involves the presence of attorneys from both sides, a court reporter, and sometimes a videographer. During a deposition, you, as the plaintiff, will be questioned by the defendant’s attorney about the incident that led to your injuries or losses, your medical history, and other relevant details related to your case.
What to Expect During Your Deposition
Feeling nervous about your deposition is completely normal, but being prepared can help alleviate some of that anxiety. Here’s what you can expect during the deposition process:
Preparation. Before the deposition, your attorney will thoroughly prepare you for the questioning. We will go over potential questions you might be asked. We will discuss the best strategies for providing clear and truthful answers, and help you avoid the traps laid by opposing counsel in an effort to diminish your damages.
Setting. Depositions usually take place in a conference room rather than a courtroom. The atmosphere is generally less formal, but it’s essential to remember that you are still under oath and should treat the proceedings with the utmost seriousness. Depositions can be used in court as evidence under certain circumstances, so it is vital that your words and demeanor do not work against your case.
Questioning. The defendant’s attorney will ask you a series of questions related to your case. These questions may cover various topics, including the incident itself, your injuries, medical treatment, employment history, and the impact of the injuries on your daily life. It’s crucial to answer truthfully and to the best of your ability.
Recording. A court reporter will transcribe everything said during the deposition, creating an official record of the proceedings. In some cases, a videographer may also be present to record the deposition visually.
Length. Depositions can vary in length depending on the complexity of the case and the number of questions asked. It is not uncommon for a deposition to last a few hours, but in rare circumstances, others could extend over multiple days.
Throughout the deposition, your attorney will be present to protect your rights and ensure that the questioning remains fair and appropriate. If there are any objections to the questions asked, your attorney will handle them on your behalf.
Contact Us
While the idea of being deposed may seem daunting, it’s essential to remember that your team at Lazenby Law Group is here to guide you through the process every step of the way. By being prepared and remaining truthful in your responses, you can help strengthen your case and move one step closer to achieving the justice you deserve. If you have any further questions or concerns about depositions or your personal injury case, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you through this challenging time.
