Preparing for a Deposition in Long Island

Are you nervous about an upcoming deposition? You are not alone. Many of our clients fear the deposition process, which involves questioning witnesses before a trial by opposing attorneys to uncover facts and prevent surprises on the stand. If you are preparing for a deposition in Long Island, it is important to understand that these sessions are part of pre-trial discovery and typically take place in one of the lawyer’s offices.

The mistake most often made by plaintiffs is that they talk too much. The most important thing to remember at a deposition is to just answer the question, no more and no less. To learn more or discuss what you should expect at a deposition, consult with a Long Island personal injury lawyer today.

Things to Keep in Mind

• One of the most important things to understand and remember is that it is okay to say “I don’t know,” “I am not sure,” or “Please repeat the question.” Make sure you fully understand what the question is before you answer it.
• Do not overthink your answers—just tell the truth. Many plaintiffs trip themselves up by trying to figure out what the “right answer” is. The right answer is always the truth. We have seen plaintiffs lie when asked if they were ever in an accident or convicted of a crime. Telling the truth, even if you think it could hurt your case, is far better. We can address any issues if we know about them. But if you lie, the other side will likely discover it, and that becomes much harder to fix.
• Just answer the question. As we have said, the most common mistake at depositions is saying too much. Keep your answers as simple as possible while still being complete and honest. If a simple “yes” or “no” answers the question, there is no need to elaborate or volunteer extra information.

How a Lawyer Can Help

If you are subpoenaed for a deposition, preparing for a deposition in Long Island with the help of a qualified lawyer is essential. Your attorney should properly prepare you, address all your questions and concerns, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. If you feel your lawyer is not fulfilling these responsibilities, it may be time to consider changing attorneys.

Contact us today for a free consultation.