Can you correct a statement after deposition?
Asked by: Ms. Ruby Simonis | Last update: July 21, 2025Score: 4.1/5 (43 votes)
So, the simple answer is, yes, you can change answers. But, it's subject to impeachment from the other side questioning why you had one answer and then changed it to another and then use those diverging statements against you.
Can you change something you said in deposition?
California. Section 2025.520(b) of the California Code of Civil Procedure (“C.C.P.”) similarly allows a deponent to make “change[s to] the form or the substance of the answer to a question” within 30 days, but does not require a signed statement listing the changes and the reasons for making them.
What if I made a mistake on my deposition?
Changes can be technical (i.e. mis-spelled words, correcting punctuation, etc.), but can also be substantive. However, substantive changes do open a deponent up to the risk of having to appear for a follow-up deposition to explain the substantive changes made.
Can you edit a deposition?
This rule allows a witness to make changes to deposition testimony within 30 days after the deposition officer notifies the witness that his/her deposition is available to be read. Id. Parties can agree to a time period longer than 30 days if it is mutually agreed upon.
How do you correct a deposition transcript?
makes a request "before completion of the deposition, the deponent shall have 30 days after being notified by the officer that the transcript or recording is available" to review the record and, "if there are changes in form or substance, to sign a statement reciting such changes and the reasons given by the deponent ...
Can I Change My Answers During Or After A Deposition?
What is errata after deposition?
In simple terms, an errata sheet deposition is a separate attachment from the deposition that a witness can use to correct any mistakes in the transcript. While not part of the main transcript, it's still considered a part of the court record.
Are deposition transcripts hearsay?
At the deposition, all parties may question the witness. Lawyers may not coach their clients' testimony, and the lawyers' ability to object to deposition questions is usually limited. Depositions are usually hearsay and are thus inadmissible at trial.
What not to say at a deposition?
- Guess or speculate. “I don't know” or “I can't remember” is acceptable.
- Be anxious or stressed out. It will affect what you say and how you appear.
- Be defensive or angry. Never argue with the attorney.
- Offer information not requested. ...
- Talk too much or ramble. ...
- Talk too little. ...
- Be too extreme.
What happens if you accidentally lie in a deposition?
Many deponents do not understand that lying during a sworn deposition is considered the same as lying under oath in open court — both carry penalties for perjury. Further, attorneys often form questions to catch deponents in lies, with many then having documented proof to impeach the witness and prove they are lying.
Do erratas need to be notarized?
as they were not notarized, there is no procedural requirement that errata sheets be notarized under Rule 30(e)—nor do Plaintiffs point to any such requirement.
Can I lie in response to questions at the deposition?
Lying during a deposition is perjury. That is a felony. The other party can use your testimony at the deposition later in trial.
Can a case settle after deposition?
How long after deposition will they settle? After a deposition, settlement can happen in days, weeks, or months, depending on your case specifics.
Can you object to hearsay in a deposition?
The most fundamental rule is that only objections to the form of a question must be raised during a deposition. All other objections such as hearsay, relevancy, etc. are preserved for trial or until a party attempts to use the deposition testimony to support or oppose a motion, typically a summary judgment motion.
Can you say I don't remember in a deposition?
A deposition is not a test. You don't get credit for guessing. If you don't remember the facts that would answer a particular question, just say, “I don't remember.” If you are not absolutely certain about your answer, qualify your answer with something like, “To the best of my recollection right now …”
Can you refuse to talk in a deposition?
Yes, you can refuse to answer a question during a deposition if it is protected by privilege (e.g., attorney-client privilege) or if it is irrelevant, harassing, or abusive. Your attorney can advise you on when it is appropriate to refuse.
How do judges decide who is telling the truth?
The standard credibility instruction tells the fact-finder to consider the witness's strength of memory,ability in the described circumstances to see and hear,and the clarity with which he is able to recall events. Tone of voice,shades of expression,and gestures are also to be considered.
Can you recant a deposition?
The simple answer to if you can change your answers on your deposition is, yes, you can change your answers at any time. The biggest issue with a deposition is that you're not getting a list of questions that the other side is going to ask you in advance. So, your answers are all on the fly.
How can you tell if someone is lying in a deposition?
- Premise. ...
- Verbal Indicators. ...
- No Response/Non-Responsive. ...
- Delayed Response. ...
- Repeating the Question. ...
- No Denial. ...
- Overly Specific/Overly Vague. ...
- Protest Statements.
What should you not say to a lawyer?
- Do Not Say Anything to Your Attorney That Is Not True. ...
- Do Not Exaggerate Your Injuries When Talking to Your Lawyer. ...
- Do Not Tell Your Lawyer to Act On Your Behalf and Take Other Action Without Their Awareness.
How do you answer tricky deposition questions?
When answering questions in a deposition, it's essential to stick to what you know and avoid speculating or guessing. If you're not sure of the answer to a question, it's okay to say so. However, you should avoid making assumptions or offering opinions that are not based on fact.
Can you plead the 5th in a deposition?
Yes, you can plead the fifth in a civil trial or deposition. But, whether you should or should not do so is often an issue that requires you to waive certain risks and benefits. If you refuse to testify in a civil matter, there can be adverse consequences for the case.
Can a deposition be used against you?
A deposition may be used by any party to contradict or impeach the testimony given by the deponent as a witness or for any other purpose allowed by the Federal Rules of Evidence. Fed. R. Civ.
How do I get out of a deposition?
Participants in a deposition, whether they are witnesses or attorneys, generally cannot leave the deposition at will; they must have valid legal grounds. Such grounds include: Health emergency: If a deponent or attorney faces a sudden health issue.
Does a deposition mean going to trial?
Regardless of the fact depositions and testimony are important, in some cases they may not be necessary. In fact, participating in a deposition doesn't necessarily mean your case will go to trial.