What should you not answer in a deposition?
Asked by: Dr. Fausto Flatley | Last update: March 9, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (57 votes)
What questions can you refuse to answer in a deposition?
Private information. You have a right to refuse any questions about a person's health, sexuality, or religious beliefs (including your own). The opposing attorney will have to explain how your answer has a direct bearing on the case in order to compel you to answer.
What not to say during deposition?
- 1. The question has already been asked and answered
- 2. Harassing the Witness
- 3. Calls for speculation
- 4. Overbroad
- 5. Vague
- 6. Not warranted by existing law
- 7. Improper purpose (to harass witness)
- 8. Irrelevant inquiry
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 I answer "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 Answer Questions During Your Deposition in Your Lawsuit? NY Attorney Explains
How to beat a deposition?
- Be prepared. ...
- Think before answering. ...
- Never volunteer information. ...
- Make sure you understand the question. ...
- You must tell the truth. ...
- Don't get rattled or upset. ...
- Don't guess. ...
- If you do not remember, say so.
Can you remain silent during 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.
What is the leading question in a deposition?
Every lawyer can define a leading question. A leading question is a question that “suggests” the answer. As basic a text as the American Jurisprudence for Evidence defines leading questions as “those which suggest to the witness the answer desired.” 81 Am.
Who asks questions first in a deposition?
Usually the person who requested the deposition will ask questions first. The attorney who represents the person being deposed might ask follow-up questions only to clear up any misunderstandings that may have come up during the initial questioning.
What to wear to a deposition?
In most cases, slacks (black, brown, or khaki) and a long-sleeved dress shirt are the best option for a deposition. Not too casual. Do not wear jeans, shorts, sneakers, sandals, or head wear. Long pants, dress shoes, and a belt or suspenders are top choices.
Is it OK to cry during a deposition?
If you have been severely traumatized and have become depressed as a result of that trauma, it is expected that you will act depressed and perhaps cry, if appropriate, at your deposition.
Can you settle during a deposition?
Until a judge or jury verdict is reached, a settlement can be made at any point in a personal injury case. A settlement offer can even be made at a deposition once the evidence and its indication of negligence and fault become clear.
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.
Can you say I don't know in a deposition?
Volunteering information that's not requested by the question usually just makes the process take longer. Don't guess, don't speculate, unless you're asked to. Don't be afraid to say, "I don't know," if, in fact, you really don't know.
Can a judge force you to answer a question?
It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before agreeing to answer questions. In general, only a judge can order you to answer questions.
Do you have to answer everything in a deposition?
Do you have to answer it? In almost every instance, the answer is yes, you do. There are only a few instances where you can get away with not answering a question.
How to ace a deposition?
- Be prepared with the facts. Witnesses can prepare to win or prepare to fail.
- Tell the truth. Do not lie. ...
- Take your time. ...
- Answer “yes” or “no” if that fits the question. ...
- Answer one question at time. ...
- Anticipate questions. ...
- Request a break.
How do you know if your deposition went well?
- Did you feel prepared and confident going into the deposition? ...
- Did you pause before answering each question? ...
- Did you provide clear, concise answers to the attorney's questions? ...
- Did you manage to stay calm and composed, even under pressure?
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.
What is the best evidence rule in a deposition?
The best evidence rule only applies when a party seeks to prove the contents of the document sought to be admitted as evidence. The best evidence rule provides that the original documents must be provided as evidence, unless the original is lost, destroyed, or otherwise unobtainable.
Do both sides ask questions in a deposition?
The deponent will be asked a number of questions related to the lawsuit by the attorneys on both sides. A court reporter who is present accurately records every question and answer in the deposition, and produces a transcript that can later be used at trial.
What are examples of leading questions?
There are four types of leading questions you should be aware of, from assumptive questions to statement-based, coercive, and consequential questions. Examples of leading questions are: 'How much do you enjoy using [product]? ' 'What did you like and dislike about [x]?
Do people settle at deposition?
After a deposition, settlement can happen in days, weeks, or months, depending on your case specifics. If a settlement isn't reached, the case may go to trial, where a judge or jury decides. However, most personal injury cases settle before trial. Instead, they may offer the settlement well after the trial starts.
How to answer questions without incriminating yourself?
Be Mindful of Your Words – Choose your words carefully during the interrogation. Avoid making statements that can be interpreted as admitting guilt or implicating yourself in the crime. Stick to simple and concise answers, and do not elaborate or provide unnecessary information.