How Can I Ensure My Deposition Goes Well?

Attending a deposition and answering questions about your accident and injuries can be intimidating because a single misguided statement could have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. A personal injury lawyer from the Cooper Law Firm can help you prepare for the deposition by explaining the process and the questions that you will likely have to answer. This alone will reduce much of the stress you feel going into the proceedings, and it will prevent you from making critical misstatements that would compromise your case.

If you were hurt in an accident and you want a seasoned attorney to guide you through every step of the proceedings, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Our team will help you pursue the maximum compensation for lost income, medical bills, and non-economic damages. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation with an accident attorney in Tyler.

Read on to learn how to avoid compromising your case during the deposition:

1. Do Not Speculate

The opposing party may ask you to venture your thoughts on certain circumstances of the collision; however, you are not obligated to speculate during the deposition. All you must do is answer questions honestly. Thus, if you do not know the answer to a particular question, then you do not have to provide one, even if the attorney simply asks you to speculate.

2. Clarify Any Mistakes

If for some reason you do make a mistake, tell the attorney that you misspoke and ask to go back to the question. You are not bound to an answer simply because nerves are running high and you spoke before you understood the question.

3. Stay Calm

Practice breathing exercises prior to the deposition, and use them as needed during the proceedings to ensure you stay calm. The other party may be combative and try to get a rise out of you, but getting angry and frustrated will only make you flustered and could ultimately hurt your case.

4. Listen Carefully to Each Question

Make sure you understand what each question is asking before you provide your response. This will prevent you from making mistakes and then having to clarify your answers.

The American Bar Association reminds attorneys to tell clients the following four rules before undergoing a deposition:

• Listen to the question;
• Make sure you understand it, and ask for clarification if you do not;
• Think about your answer; and
• Express your answer in the clearest and most concise way possible.

5. Review Any Provided Documents Thoroughly

If the attorney provides you with any documents and then asks questions regarding them, make sure you review them and understand what you are looking at before you answer. You may be nervous and want to finish the proceedings as quickly as possible, but rushing through each question will ultimately do more harm than good.

If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Texas, contact the Cooper Law firm to discuss your case. Attorney N. Eric Cooper will investigate your crash, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you fight for the maximum payout.

Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Tyler. You can learn more about car accident claims in Texas by visiting USAttorneys.com.