By Greg Reger

Our law firm has guided many clients through the deposition process.  We extensively prepare for those depositions.  Certainly, deposition preparation can’t be distilled down to a few paragraphs.  However, we have developed this top ten list.  If you are preparing for a deposition, remember these top ten pointers:

1.         Tell the Truth. 

2.         Do not Volunteer Information. 

3.         Review Key Documents.  Remember, the opposing lawyer may ask about what you review.  Those documents might also be discoverable after that review. 

4.         Stay Professional.  Do not argue with the other lawyer.

5.         Do Not Assume.

6.         If You Don’t Know, Say You Don’t Know. 

7.         Do Not Guess or Speculate.

8.         Go Over Questions You Know Will Occur and Practice Answering Them with Someone You Trust.

9.         Dress Comfortably but Professionally.

10.       Make Sure You Know What You Have Previously Said Under Oath.  The truth is always the truth, but you will want to remember the context and other facts.

We hope these top ten pointers are helpful should you ever find yourself being deposed.