The Importance of Depositions in a Personal Injury Case

If a Newport Beach personal injury attorney files a lawsuit on your behalf in your accident claim, you can expect to have your deposition taken. Here are some things you need to know about the process.

When a Deposition Might Be Required

Anytime a lawsuit is filed, the parties are allowed to gather information from the each other aimed at exploring the strength and the weaknesses of both sides. At your deposition, you’ll give sworn testimony in front of a court reporter, usually in the lawyer’s office. Expect the opposing attorney to ask you questions about your background, your work history and details about your accident and injury. Your Newport Beach personal injury lawyer will be there as well, but it’s the defendant’s lawyer who will ask most of the questions. Your lawyer can also depose the defendant or other witnesses in the case.

How a Deposition Is Used

Keep in mind that you’re under oath during a deposition. If there are any inconsistencies with what you say at a later trial, this could be detrimental. In addition to gathering information about your case, the defense attorney uses the deposition to gauge how you handle the pressure of cross examination. This helps both lawyers assess what kind of witness you’ll make if the case goes to trial.

10 Tips for Giving A Good Deposition

When you are giving your deposition, your Newport Beach Personal Injury Attorney will stress the importance of proper preparation and maintaining a calm, cool demeanor no matter what happens. This can help to prevent becoming agitated, showing nerves and making glaring errors while testifying. Below are 10 tips to implement when giving your deposition.

Let a Newport Beach personal injury attorney review your case and and help you understand your options. Call Russell & Lazarus APC to set up an appointment at 949-851-0222.