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Preparing For a Deposition

Posted on behalf of Arnold Law Firm in

preparing for a depositionThorough preparation is essential for delivering a good deposition. Opposing counsel may try to provoke you, but it is important that you remain cool, calm and collected. Deposition preparation will help you maintain your composure and deliver proper testimony despite the pressure you may be feeling.

Before your deposition:

  • Try to get quality sleep the night before your deposition, as the process can be strenuous.
  • Only do what your attorney has instructed you to do to prepare for your deposition. Do not perform research or evaluate documents unless you have been instructed to do so.

On the day of your deposition:

  • Dress professionally, as if you were going on a job interview.
  • If documents have been requested of you, bring along copies for yourself, your attorney, and the defenses attorney. Bring the original documents as well to prove that the copies are accurate.

During your deposition:

  • Keep a level head, and try not to show frustration during intense questioning.
  • Speak respectfully, even in heated moments.
  • Tell the truth, as you are under oath.
  • If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so. Never guess or speculate.
  • If you must estimate a date, distance, or other measure, be clear in stating that the answer you have given is an estimate.
  • Answer only what you have been asked. Do not elaborate, and do not go off on tangents. Yes and no are complete answers for many questions.
  • Don’t rush through the deposition. Take your time listening to each complete question and properly formulating your answers. This will also give your attorney time to make objections if necessary.
  • Follow the instruction of your attorney during the deposition.

The Sacramento personal injury attorneys at Arnold Law Firm are dedicated to helping our clients deliver strong depositions for the benefit of their cases.

We offer free consultations. Get started today by calling (916) 777-7777.

Settlement - $3,767,000

Truck Accident

A 20-year-old man who had been married for just 12 days left home on his way to work. He was driving on Pleasant Grove Road in Sutter County in the early morning when he came upon a slow-moving truck. As he pulled out to pass the truck, the truck driver turned left in front of him. The young man attempted to steer back into his lane but his vehicle struck an un-flagged piece of metal extending from the back of the truck. He died in the resulting crash.

Expert witnesses brought in by the Arnold Law Firm proved that the truck, owned and operated by a hauling firm, should never have been on the highway that morning. Specifically, the rear and side turn signals did not work and the rear-view mirror was in a poor state of adjustment at the time of the collision. As a result, the driver, who had failed to properly inspect the vehicle before setting out that morning, couldn’t see the young man’s vehicle as it attempted to pass.

The poor condition of the truck, its lack of maintenance and the manner in which it was operated were found to be substantial factors in causing the collision that killed the young man. The testimony also established that the man had been making a lawful pass at the lawful speed limit and acted reasonably when he attempted to avoid the collision.

The man’s 20-year-old widow was awarded $3,767,000.77, his parents were awarded $185,131 and the family was reimbursed $11,899 in funeral expenses. Though money is a poor substitute for a young man’s life, this verdict demonstrates that drivers who endanger the lives of others will be held accountable for their actions.