What words to use, not to, what are my rights during a deposition?
2006-09-14 07:59:31 · 11 answers · asked by dante2006 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
1. for questions involving numbers, quantities, dates, etc., only answer if you can give your best estimate or better - never guess, because they can use this against you later and it can undermine your credibility
2. pause for two seconds after the lawyer asking the questions finishes asking the question - this pause will accomplish two things: i) it prevents you from giving away "free" information before you are sure what the question is asking; and ii) it allows the court reporter to keep up
3. you have a right to take a break at any time for any reason
4. you can stop at any time and ask to speak to your lawyer privately
5. as much as possible, try to answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no" - it is the lawyer's job to get the information he needs, and you shouldn't help him out
2006-09-14 08:29:52 · answer #1 · answered by colivas5 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just be honest and try not to be nervous. For the most part it's just a really boring legal procedure where all they are trying to do is find out what you know about whatever the case is about. Will you have an attorney with you? If so, don't worry. He'll make sure things aren't asked that you shouldn't have to answer. Also, you'll be able to stop the proceedings at any point in order to talk with your attorney in private.
Just don't be nervous. And drink gallons of coffee. These can be so boring that you could find yourself fighting to stay awake.
I've been a court reporter for almost a quarter of a century!
2006-09-14 08:04:42 · answer #2 · answered by curious 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I agree with DJ.
Also, review the subject matter prior to the depo. It is helpful to think of possible questions that may be asked and contemplate how you will answer.
Truthful, short and to the point answers are probably best.
2006-09-14 18:37:40 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Uh, pretty simple. Answer the question and nothing but the question. Do not explain your answer. Do not offer additional information. Everything you say will be used for and against you. Stick to the truth; it will set you free.
2006-09-14 08:07:40 · answer #4 · answered by OU812 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
One rule:
Answer ONLY the question that is ASKED in SHORT answers.
Once a question is asked, repeat the rule to yourself, take time to think of your answer, breathe and then say it. Take as long as you like and do not answer quickly. Slow and deliberate.
2006-09-14 08:08:29 · answer #5 · answered by DJ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is a legal proceeding. Tell the trueth and do not answer what questions you feel unprepared to answer.
2006-09-14 10:22:39 · answer #6 · answered by Dee Dude 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your attorney should be there with you. Just tell the truth, because everything is going to be recorded.
2006-09-14 08:01:20 · answer #7 · answered by tina m 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
opposing councils job is for you to help their case. answer every question: A) yes B) no C) i don't know D) i don't recall ..... one of those answers is the truth so be truthful
2006-09-14 08:11:40 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
speak eloquently, dont be all like really nervous and like, uhm like and ya know and like say stuff like, "like" and "ya know" and "and" a lot. and shoo doan be up in there conversatin' all ghetto n stuff eever n shoo ifn ya gots to ax a qweshyun, ax yer lawyer befo it starts n stuff....shoooo
i dont really talk like that in person, but i play a character that does.
2006-09-14 08:08:21 · answer #9 · answered by daddysboicub 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
answer only what they ask you, speak clearly, make a long story short.
2006-09-14 08:07:09 · answer #10 · answered by kimmy3 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋