Ensuring Your Clients Are Ready for Deposition

A legal deposition can be a grueling experience for your clients. Depositions near San Jose aren’t exactly a picnic for attorneys either, given that it can be nerve-wracking to watch a client fumble with answers. Extensive preparation is the only effective way to ensure that your clients are truly ready for the questions. It’s also important to arrange deposition services from a court reporter as soon as possible. Additionally, consider whether a video deposition would be beneficial for your case.

Explain the Basics of a Deposition

Legal terminology is often confusing for the layperson. It’s best not to assume that your clients know what a legal deposition is, why it’s being held, and what will happen during it. Let your clients know that although the deposition is being held outside of a courtroom, it is a legal proceeding and your clients will be under oath. Discuss the parties that will be present and explain their roles, including the role of the court reporter. Inform your clients that a series of ground rules will be read before the questioning begins.

Discuss the Ideal Types of Answers

The best answers for a client to give during a deposition are “Yes,” “No,” “I don’t know,” and “I don’t recall.” Remind your client that it’s essential, to be honest while under oath. If he or she doesn’t know something, he or she should never guess. Tell your client that he or she should take plenty of time to consider questions whenever needed. If your client doesn’t understand a question, he or she can ask for clarification. Remind your client to only give as much information as is necessary to answer a question; he or she should never volunteer extraneous information.

Review Relevant Documents

Preparation for a legal deposition should include a thorough review of all documents that are relevant to the case. It’s particularly important for your client to reread any prior statements he or she has given.

Hold a Mock Deposition

Clients who practice answering questions are less likely to be nervous during the deposition. A mock legal deposition can also help your client learn how to answer questions appropriately.