5 Things You Want to Know About a Deposition

It’s a question we’re often asked and it’s an important part of personal injury cases. Here are 5 things you need to know about depositions.

1. What is a deposition?

A deposition is simply a question and answer session, where the opposing attorney has the opportunity to ask you questions under oath and learn about your case.

2. Who attends a deposition?

There is typically a court reporter present, the lawyer for the opposing party and possibly a videographer. Sometimes the ‘at-fault’ party will be present as well.

3. When do depositions occur?

Depositions only happen in cases where a lawsuit has been filed. If the case is still in presuit negotiations, there will be no mechanism for the other party to take your deposition.

The deposition of a plaintiff (the injured party) can last anywhere from 2 hours in a simple case up to several days in complex cases with catastrophic injuries. The longest deposition I have ever been involved in lasted 5 days. Needless to say, everyone was exhausted at the end of that week!

4. Where do depositions take place?

Depositions typically take place in attorney’s offices, not in courtrooms.

5. Why are depositions important?

Depositions often depict a more complete picture of the events in question. They are important because it gives the insurance company a chance to see how you well a client will testify in court. They will be assessing presentation and credibility of answers. It is vitally important that clients are well prepared before a deposition.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an automobile accident, contact Tampa personal injury attorney, Paul Rebein at 813-305-7285.