Expert Advocacy

San Diego Injury Victims: How Not to Perform at a Deposition

Every person I know gets nervous when it is time to sit for a deposition. They worry that they’ll have to deal with the worst imaginable movie deposition with opposing counsel yelling at them, wagging their finger, and calling them a liar.

Very rarely does that ever happen. Most of the time, it is a very simple question and answers session.

Our office instructs clients that there are two simple rules for performing at deposition:
1. Listen carefully and answer directly.
2. Be truthful.

If you follow those rules, you’ll be fine. But here are a few examples of what not to do at a deposition.

First, don’t lose your temper. Don’t rise to the bait.

Second, speak clearly and act……well, sane.

Third, don’t get in a fight with the attorney.

Fourth, don’t act superior…or a jerk

It’s enough to drive court reporters and videographers nuts….or just lame.