What is a leading question in a deposition?

Asked by: Jane Berge  |  Last update: October 18, 2023
Score: 4.5/5 (34 votes)

leading question. n. a question asked of a witness by an attorney during a trial or a deposition (questioning under oath outside of court), suggesting an answer or putting words in the mouth of the witness.

Can leading questions be asked in depositions?

You should not ask only leading questions at a deposition. In some jurisdictions it may be considered improper as to form to ask leading questions at a deposition. That aside, leading questions are great for getting commitments but they do not serve the other purpose – getting discovery.

What is an example of a leading question in psychology?

Leading questions are questions that are worded to suggest a particular answer. For example, if you say 'did you see the broken glass? ' it implies that there was broken glass and therefore the witness is more likely to say 'yes'.

What is a leading objection in a deposition?

“Objection, leading” —An objection that a question is leading goes to the form of the question and is, therefore, proper during a deposition. In fact, the failure to object to leading questions during the deposition generally acts as a waiver of the objection.

What is an example of a leading question objection?

In other words, the lawyer leads the witness to say what the lawyer wants the witness to say. Leading questions are appropriate during cross examination, but not during direct. Example: -‐ After you went into the house, you saw the child on the couch? -‐ Were the lights on? -‐ Was the house filthy?

What is a leading question example?

18 related questions found

What are leading questions questions?

Leading questions are survey questions that encourage or guide the respondent towards a desired answer. They are often framed in a particular way to elicit responses that confirm preconceived notions, and are favorable to the surveyor – even though this may ultimately sway or tamper with the survey data.

How not to ask a leading question?

7 Tips to Avoid Leading Survey Questions
  • Don't Rephrase a Participant's Response in Your Own Words. ...
  • Don't Suggest an Answer. ...
  • Avoid Yes/No and Either/Or Answers. ...
  • Remove Biased Language. ...
  • Don't Make Assumptions. ...
  • Don't Lead With a Biased Statement Before the Question. ...
  • Avoid Combining Two Questions Into One.

Can you object to a leading question in a deposition?

The rule of evidence is that an adverse party (or a hostile witness) can be asked leading questions. Thus, for an adverse party, an objection based on “leading” to a deposition question is unlikely to be sustained at trial to prevent that testimony from being admitted.

Why do lawyers object during deposition?

Objections in depositions: Whenever necessary, the defending attorney raises deposition objections to prevent the witness from providing misleading, confusing, or inaccurate testimony.

How do you get around a leading objection?

If the judge sustains an objection to a leading question, focus on rephrasing the question so that it no longer suggests an answer. In other words, try for a more "open-ended" question.

What is the difference between leading and non-leading questions?

The difference between a leading and non-leading question. “What is your name?” That is a non-leading question. Compare that with “Your name is John Smith, isn't it?” That would be leading. It basically tells the witness what his answer should be.

What are neutral questions and leading questions?

A leading question is a type of question that implies or contains its own answer. By contrast, a neutral question is expressed in a way that doesn't suggest its own answer. Leading questions can serve as a form of persuasion.

Who asks questions first in a deposition?

The parties or their attorneys have the ability to ask questions of the person being deposed. Usually the person who requested the deposition will ask questions first.

Can I lie in response to questions at the deposition?

Any time you attend a deposition, you must be honest in how you answer questions. If you are found lying during a deposition, you can be charged with perjury. In instances where this happens, you can face prison time or other penalties.

Are lawyers allowed to ask leading questions?

In general, leading questions are not allowed during the direct examination of a witness, however, they are allowed on the cross-examination of a witness.

Can you refuse to answer a question in a deposition?

You can object to any questions in a deposition, but you may be compelled to answer if a judge overrules the objection in court. In many cases, questions that do not have to be answered fall into three categories: Private information.

How do you know if your deposition went well?

The opposing attorney seemed satisfied with your answers:

The opposing attorney's demeanor can provide clues about whether they believe your testimony to be credible. If they appear satisfied or pleased with your answers, it's a positive indication that your deposition is going well.

How do you stay calm during a deposition?

Staying Calm, Collected, and on Course
  1. Tell the Truth – It helps to think of a deposition as nothing more than a discussion. ...
  2. Think First, Speak Second – Always consider the question and think over your answer before you speak. ...
  3. Keep It Short and Sweet – Your answers should be short, sweet, and to the point.

How do you succeed in a deposition?

Although being on the hot seat will certainly be slightly uncomfortable, if you keep these tips in mind, the deposition is likely to go smoothly.
  1. Prepare. ...
  2. Tell the Truth. ...
  3. Be Mindful of the Transcript. ...
  4. Answer Only the Question Presented. ...
  5. Answer Only as to What You Know. ...
  6. Stay Calm. ...
  7. Ask to See Exhibits. ...
  8. Don't Be Bullied.

How do you respond to a leading question?

The easiest way to identify a leading question is to notice the biases that it presupposes. After doing this, you can choose to respond in one of these ways: Clearly reject the bias. For instance, when asked: “How much did you enjoy this event?” — you can say, “I did not enjoy the event”.

Are deposition questions yes and no?

You don't have to just say “yes” or “no” to the opposing attorney's question, even if he's asking you to just answer yes or no. You don't have to accept his choice of words, his premise, or his framework. You can use your own words and you can explain why it isn't a simple “yes” or “no” answer.

Are leading questions yes or no?

Many leading questions call for answers of either "yes" or "no." But not all questions that call for an answer of "yes" or "no" are leading questions (just as not all leading questions call for a "yes" or "no" answer).

When should leading questions not be allowed?

Leading questions should not be used on the direct examination of a witness except as may be necessary to develop the witness' testimony. Ordinarily leading questions should be permitted on cross-examination.

Is a leading question a closed question?

A leading question is a type of closed-ended question where the asker of the question is seeking a specific answer from the respondent, and it is often phrased in such a way as to confirm information. An example if this would be "Isn't it true that the sum of 5 and 3 is 8?".