Going through the legal process after a personal injury in San Antonio can be overwhelming, especially after you’ve suffered a serious injury. All types of unfamiliar legal procedures may be involved, including depositions. These are powerful tools and can make a significant difference in the outcome of your personal injury case, so you should not try to deal with them alone. George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help guide you through this process with confidence.
Understanding Personal Injury Depositions
Depositions are recorded interviews with parties or witnesses involved in a legal matter. An attorney asks the deponent a series of questions, and the deponent answers them under oath. A court reporter memorializes the exchange.
These interviews are recorded by video and/or audio. They usually occur at an attorney’s office or other location outside a courtroom.
Depositions are part of the discovery process, which is the process in which attorneys exchange information to prepare for trial. Depositions help attorneys establish and gather facts about the case. Both attorneys can request depositions. These depositions serve many purposes, including:
- Learning about the accident’s details
- Getting a party’s account on the record
- Using sworn testimony to contradict a later statement a witness makes at trial
- Getting a preview of what the witness would say at trial
- Evaluating a witness’s credibility
A personal injury deposition can allow you to tell your story and strengthen your claim, potentially positioning you for a higher settlement in your case. Your attorney can help you prepare.
How to Prepare for a Deposition
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your deposition:
- Work with a qualified attorney. They can give you a better idea about what to expect and ask you similar questions that the defense attorney will likely ask to practice for your deposition.
- Review relevant documents. Consistency is important. You will want to review what you said in your complaint, statement to authorities after the accident, and your statements to your medical providers.
- Practicing with your attorney can help you feel more confident and identify any problems before your formal deposition.
What to Do at a Deposition
It’s helpful to know what to do if the defense asks you to be available for a deposition. Follow these steps to protect your rights and claim.
- Listen carefully. Only answer the question asked. Many people give more information than necessary, sometimes exposing themselves to legal arguments and defenses.
- Ask for clarification. If you don’t understand the question, say so.
- Be honest. Don’t lie or exaggerate. This can irreparably harm your credibility with the judge or jury.
- Be concise. Yes or no answers are appropriate. Don’t elaborate unless you are asked to do so.
- Stick to the facts. Avoid speculating. If you don’t know the answer to something or you don’t remember, it’s fine to say these things.
- Review your testimony. After the court reporter provides a transcript, carefully review it to ensure it is accurate. Your lawyer can help prepare documentation if any corrections need to be made.
Work with Us for Help with Your Deposition
Depositions can serve a critical role in personal injury cases. An experienced San Antonio wrongful death attorney can help you prepare and guide you through the process. George Salinas Injury Lawyers will be here for you every step of the way. Call us at 210-225-0909 for immediate legal assistance.