San Diego Injury Victims: How Not to Perform at a Deposition
Every person I know gets nervous when it is time to sit for a deposition. They worry that they'll have to deal with the worst imaginable movie deposition with opposing counsel yelling at them, wagging their finger, and calling them a liar.
Very rarely does that ever happen. Most of the time, it is a very simple question and answer session.
Our office instructs clients that there are two simple rules for performing at deposition:
1. Listen carefully and answer directly.
2. Be truthful.
If you follow those rules, you'll be fine. But here are a few examples of what not to do at deposition.
First, don't lose your temper. Don't rise to the bait.
Second, speak clearly and act......well, sane.
Third, don't get in a fight with the attorney.
Fourth, don't act superior...or a jerk.
It's enough to drive court reporters and videographers nuts....or just lame (hat tip to Professor Bainbridge for showing this video):
