Basic Information About Depositions

Depositions are part of the discovery process. That process permits performance of a formal investigation. Both sides pursue such an investigation in a dispute that arose from the submission of a personal injury claim.

Documents related to discovery proceedings

Subpoenas might be issued to some witnesses, in order to seek specific papers while the written questions, also known as interrogatories. Statement obtained from witness during a deposition; such a statement serves a dual purpose. It reveals what the witness knows, and it can be saved. Saved statements from a deposition can be compared with what the same witness says during the trial.

Details about discovery

• It takes place in an Injury Lawyer office in Barrie.
• A reporter records the statements made by deposed witnesses. It might be videotaped.
• It could be as short as 15 minutes, or as long as a week.

Tips for the deponent, the person that gets deposed:

• Listen carefully to each question.
• Do not guess at the answer.
• Become aware of the signals that you might be sending by your manner of speaking, or by displaying a certain gesture.
• Practice establishing good eye contact with the person that is asking the questions. Direct your eyes on a point between the questioners’ eyes and chin.
• Do not look defensive, or eager to get as far from the questioner as possible; do not cross your arms across your chest, and do not cross your ankles.
• Do not appear tense. Carry out the proper preparations.

How to prepare for a deposition

Preparing for a deposition is a lot like preparing for a job interview. You should seek to avoid making any gesture that would show that you are nervous. Have someone tape you, while you are speaking to someone that you might want to respect.

After the tape has been made, you need to watch it. Note the actions that you make, when you are tense. Focus on stopping yourself from performing those same actions. Take a test, to see how you are doing. Become the subject of another taping. Compare that tape with the first one. See how well you have resisted the temptation to make any telltale gestures.

Do not get ready in a hurry on the day of the deposition. Allow plenty of time for selecting the outfit that you want to wear, and for fixing your hair/makeup. Do not create the impression that you have little interest in how you might look.

You do not have to appear elegant, but you should not look disheveled. Remember that a neglectful person tends to be careless. Do not create the impression that you do not want to set aside time for acts that involve self-care. Try not to send the wrong message.