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Long, Jean & Wechsler, P.A.

Personal Injury Attorneys in Pompano Beach Florida

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  • Home
  • Areas of Practice
    • Animal Attacks
    • Boating Accidents
    • Car Accidents
    • Elder Abuse & Nursing Home Neglect
    • Florida Personal Injury Lawyer
    • Medical Malpractice
    • Motorcycle Accidents
    • Product Liability
    • Slip & Fall Accidents
    • Truck Accidents
    • Wrongful Death
  • Legal Team
    • Lyle R. Long, Esq.
    • Alex Jean, Esq.
    • Ryan Wechsler, Esq.
    • Len Blumenthal, Esq
  • Case Results
  • Pompano Beach Law Firm Testimonials
  • Blog
  • Contact Our Pompano Beach Personal Injury Law Firm
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How to Prepare for a Deposition as a Plaintiff

You are here: Home / How to Win a Civil Lawsuit / How to Prepare for a Deposition as a Plaintiff
preparing for civil trials

Before any criminal or civil trial, a deposition must be taken. A critical part of the legal process, a deposition helps everyone involved with the case become more familiar with its details. It’s natural to feel nervous before a deposition. Most people are unsure about what to expect. Ideally, you’ll want to work closely with an experienced attorney that will help you prepare for a deposition.

At LJW Legal, our attorneys take the needed time to discuss the ins and outs of depositions to make sure you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the entire process. Keep reading to learn more about how to prepare for a trial deposition.

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What’s a Deposition?

To start, let’s discuss the definition of a deposition. They are mostly a pre-trial oral testimony that’s taken under oath. In a deposition, the counsel, which is the opposing attorney, will ask you questions regarding the case. An official court reporter will record all your answers.

A deposition is extremely helpful to the opposing counsel. It will show them precisely what you know about your case, and give them what they need to prepare for your testimony in advance.

Where Will It Take Place?

Most depositions take place at the law office of the counsel. However, sometimes, they do take place in a neutral office provided by another attorney or business person. In the case of criminal depositions, these are conducted in the office of the State Attorney.

What to Expect During a Deposition?

During a deposition, you’ll be meeting with your attorney, the counsel, and an official court reporter. A deposition is always recorded somehow. In some cases, they might be videotaped. The goal of the deposition is to have a record of your recollection of the facts about the lawsuit. In essence, this is just an interrogation session without the judge or jury present.

The Oath

Before you participate in a deposition, you will take an oath to tell the truth. If later testimony at trial conflicts with what you said during the deposition, you’ll have to explain why. If you’re found guilty of lying in your deposition, you can be prosecuted for perjury, or lying under oath.

The Cross Examination

It’s common for one of the parties to dispute your recollection of the facts. Once they ask all the questions, the opposing lawyer may try to undermine your credibility. If this happens, you are on your own, as your lawyer cannot help you answer any questions during the cross-examination.

Keep in mind these are traps. The purpose of these questions is to agitate you or make you angry so they can undermine your testimony later on.

A Deposition vs. Testifying in Court

Unlike testifying in court, a deposition often takes place at an attorney’s office. Even though you’re still required to answer questions, the process is different. By the time you’re testifying in court, you’ll know your attorney’s questions in advance to allow you to be more prepared. In a deposition, most questions come as a surprise.

At a trial, the judge can decide whether or not to have you answer specific questions. During a deposition, the opposing party can make uncomfortable and even inappropriate questions, and you’ll still have to answer them, as your attorney can’t interfere.

Lastly, during a deposition, there are no jurors or judges presents. It’s a more private affair between both parties.

Things to Keep in Mind at a Deposition

As you start preparing for trial depositions, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure you do your best.

Tell the truth: Under no circumstance should you lie during a deposition. You can be charged with perjury, which is a felony.

Listen carefully: Do not try to answer any question unless you’ve heard it clearly and thoroughly. If you haven’t, you can ask the attorney to repeat the question.

Understand the question: On that note, don’t answer any question unless you understand It fully. If you don’t, ask the attorney to elaborate on their question until you understand it.

Don’t guess: If you don’t know the answer, state so, don’t try to guess.

Confer with your lawyer: At any point throughout the deposition, you have the right to speak with your attorney privately regarding your answer to one question.

Just answer the question: Don’t give any more information than is necessary to answer the question. Once you believe you’ve responded to a question, stop talking.

Don’t explain: You don’t have to explain or justify the answers to their questions. You are here to state what you know.

Remain calm: Most likely, the opposing attorney will try to provoke you. Resist. Do your best to stay calm and polite, don’t argue, and speak in the same tone and manner as you would to your attorney.

Beware of estimations: If you need to estimate distances or time in any of your answers, make it clear. Once you answer, state that your response is an estimate.

Don’t speculate: On that note, you don’t want to formulate answers based on guesses, predictions, feelings, or estimations.

Beware of quotes: If you’re talking about a conversation you had in the past, make sure you say whether you’re paraphrasing comments or if you’re directly quoting what someone said.

Forget about notes: You cannot bring letters, journals, or any other documents to a deposition. These may only be used if the attorney previously approved them.

Be prepared: If the counsel requested specific documents, make sure to bring them. Bring at least three copies of the materials. One for the counsel, one for yourself, and one for your attorney. Bring the originals as well to prove the accuracy of the documents. It’s not necessary for you to bring additional documents, only bring the items requested.

Admit your mistakes: If at any point during your deposition you realize you have given an erroneous answer, correct your mistake as soon as you recognize it.

Speak about what you know: Remember that you’re not expected to know all the details. State what you know and don’t worry so much about the details. If you have to consult records not available at the moment, don’t answer.

Your conversations are private: Don’t reveal what you’re discussing with your attorney. It would be best if you never revealed to the other party what you’re privately consulting with your attorney.

Leave humor out: This is not the time or place to make jokes. Avoid obscenities and wisecracks. Your humor can be looked at as crude or untruthful and hurt your case in the future.

Don’t speak with the counsel: Once your deposition concludes, don’t talk to the counsel. A friendly conversation may be a strategy to get you to say something meaningful about your case without your attorney present.

Preparing for a trial deposition is extremely important. How you conduct yourself during one can make or break your case. Be aware that a deposition is a way to provide your opponent with ammunition to use against you. Be cooperative, but keep these tips in mind. At LJW Legal, our attorneys will work with you to make sure you feel comfortable and relaxed before your deposition.

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  • Contact Our Pompano Beach Personal Injury Law Firm

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Address:

1937 E. Atlantic Blvd. Suite 205
Pompano Beach, FL 33060


Phone & Fax:

P: 954-597-6770
F: 954-691-3906


Email:

info@ljwlegal.com

Long, Jean & Wechsler, P.A.
Long, Jean & Wechsler, P.A.
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Katiana BelonyKatiana Belony
22:25 01 Jun 23
Alex is amazing! He was able to help me despite the fact that I had to move back to college. He was able to make the transition stress free for me. He is very patient and has no problem being an advocate for you. Thank you again!
Chelsee HChelsee H
16:09 28 Apr 23
From the moment I stepped into their office, I knew this was a good choice. LJW legal team is by far the one you want to represent you for any personal injury case you have. I had the pleasure of being represented by Lyle Long. His team, including Renee and Jess, were very involved with my case and kept me informed of all that was happening every step of the way. Lyle was available to answer my questions and concerns at any given time, and would have no problem explaining any part of the process that I wasn’t sure of. I would recommend any and every one I know who needs a Personal Injury attorney to use LJW Legal, because when they say they have your back and put you first, they actually mean it. They treat you with respect, like an actual person and not just a case/number and that’s why they stand out miles above the rest.
dan ldan l
18:58 04 Apr 23
Had the fortune of meeting this young attorney Alex Jean at a business luncheon for professionals. I was immediately drawn to him with his charisma, genuineness and him being a Local product of South Florida. Being the son of an attorney I know the difference between attorneys and a genuine attorney who knows his field of practice. With that being said I unfortunately found myself in a position where I needed an attorney to represent me to go after what was due to me. I immediately called Alex and he was on the case. I was injured and hit by an uninsured, unlicensed driver, I know, what a surprise in south Florida! Alex explained all my options and had the case settled in 6 months! That’s what I said, six months! Super grateful for his personal commitment to my case and received updates as to my cases status all the way through. I think you’ll find that Alex is the right guy if you’ve been injured or have been in an accident. I feel like I was front and center all the way through. Thank you Long, Jean & Wechsler! Alex is the man!💥🇺🇸💥
J. Douglas FaulknerJ. Douglas Faulkner
02:52 16 Mar 23
There are not enough kind words to describe Alex Jean and his team. Every step of the case, Mr Jean and Daniela kept me as well as my family involved in every detail. Not only is Mr Jean a tremendous attorney, he is a true gentlemen and has true compassion for his clients.I highly recommend Mr Jean and his team for any of your legal needs.
Tyler ChinTyler Chin
19:39 09 Feb 23
I have had the pleasure of knowing Lyle Long for about 6 years now and consider him family. I got into a huge car wreck and Lyle helped me get the best turnout I could of even imagined! This guy is the real deal and is not less than THE BEST attorney I have ever had. Highly recommend this man and his firm. Look no further for a beast of a lawyer Lyle is your guy!
Mary JohnsonMary Johnson
19:18 07 Feb 23
The best Personal Injury Firm ever! Ryan Wechsler is on top of it all. Incredibly responsive, caring and has a true passion in fighting for the rights for the victims. Ryan always protects those that need his help. Navigating the insurance world after a motor vehicle accident, is overwhelming. You need an expert like Ryan to help guide the way!! He always has integrity to always do the right thing. I refer all my friends to Ryan after my amazing experience with him and his firm!
Jeremiah CrumetyJeremiah Crumety
21:34 01 Feb 23
From the beginning Lyle didn’t take long at all to help me with my car wreck. Immediately he walked me through everything as I took great pictures of the scene. He then instructed me what to do further. Jess was there to help me orchestrate things as the time got closer to settling and was very transparent with me about the process. Despite the trials that came up.When it came down to the end Marianna disclosed everything and helped me get reductions and waive medical bills down to a minimum. Totally grateful for all who helped get me behinds the scenes to get a fresh start. With new life and a new beginning.Happy New Year
Jennifer VelezJennifer Velez
02:51 12 Jan 23
ReviewI highly recommend contacting L,J&W law firmAfter my car accident a friend(Shelbie) referred me to Lyle Long and I'm forever grateful that she did. Lyle proved exceptional at handling my case. All interactions with his office were informative, professional yet personable and courteous. All my questions and concerns were addressed quickly. Jess and Shelbie went above and beyond to make sure I knew everything that was happening with my case.They ensured that I got the treatment I needed and compensation for damages. I am thankful to have had his office assist me in this journey and will gladly recommend his services.
arletty fernandezarletty fernandez
21:24 13 Nov 22
Ryan and Helen were very thorough and diligent with my case. This was my first time having to hire for this type of service and am honestly thrilled to have been referred to such a diligent, efficient and caring team. They made sure to stay in touch and keep me updated all throughout my case. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Thank you all for your excellent care.
Francisco GarciaFrancisco Garcia
18:25 18 Oct 22
THEY CHANGED MY LIFE!!. I never knew I deserved fair compensation if I was in an accident. They went above and beyond and fought for me. They knocked it out of the park. Alex Jean made me feel taken care of and always answered my calls. His counseling and guidance led us to a successful and well resolved case.I want to thank Renee as well. She was ferocious in negotiating. I will always look to them to tackle what comes their way and fight for me.P.s.: Also, thank you to the rest of the team who all worked together to make it happen.
Michi GarciaMichi Garcia
16:55 12 Oct 22
I will never go anywhere else! This group has gone above and beyond for my case. I am witness to this because they have made it a quick, easy, and effortless process for my physical recovery and made sure I got compensated for my injuries. So grateful to have had Alex Jean as my lawyer and Renee as my paralegal. It has been a huge relief to know I am taken care of and in good hands.
Florane FleurinorFlorane Fleurinor
14:52 03 Oct 22
Very good, professional and responsible lawyer. His office was in contact with me every time they had new information. Step by step Mr. Alex Jean would explain to me what is going on with my case. I didn’t have to wait for years for results. So far from what I hear from other people about their cases Mr. Alex Jean is the best. And I will reference my family and friends you and thank you so much
alexis Johnsonalexis Johnson
20:35 13 Sep 22
Ryan Wechsler is by far one of the best lawyers around. He gave me the assurance that everything was going to be okay. He is a very professional, respectful, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and an honest lawyer. His entire team (Daniela & Helen) was amazing. Very pleasant and kept me up to date every step of the way during my case. Ryan fought hard for me! I’m very thankful for all of his hard work and everyone at Long, Jean & Wechsler. If you’re ever in need of a great legal team give them a call.
Saif PowerSaif Power
14:59 30 Aug 22
Lyle was a pleasure to work with, he delivered on his promises. He was very prompt with his responses and very helpful when we first touched base. I’d definitely take him again on any relevant case.
Luiz CentLuiz Cent
02:15 13 Jul 22
I hired Alex Jean for a personal injury case and little did I know I was going to get world class treatment.I was referred to the best Chiropractors in Miami and then when I moved to St.Pete the LJW team had great connections there too.My Tesla is as good as new, my back is recovering and not to mention the settlement from the insurance. If I didn’t hire them I’d still be trying to recover money from insurance to fix my car.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you need a personal injury attorney I 100% recommend Alex Jean and the team at LJW.
Princess Maryam Abdul-AkbarPrincess Maryam Abdul-Akbar
16:29 07 Jul 22
Ryan Wechsler is an excellent attorney. He worked tirelessly on my case, which was a difficult one to begin with. When other attorneys were given me issues to take my case, he was the only one that was reassuring and determine to seek justice for me. I completely trusted his counsel. Had it not been for Mr. Wechsler I would have accumulated a lot of debt. I am forever grateful that he accepted my case.
Angelina AkkadAngelina Akkad
12:47 30 Jun 22
Ryan and the team are absolute rock stars! I got a recommendation from a good friend to use them, and I was not disappointed. They solved my issue with one strong letter and avoided a bad situation and lots of time and $$$ saved. I will definitely be using them again if the need ever arises.
Micheca AristildeMicheca Aristilde
19:46 08 Jun 22
Very good firm. I had an unusual case. A crane dropped on my car the week of Christmas. Considering the fact my accident occurred during the holiday season, Lyle and his paralegal, Helen, ensured that I received treatment the same day, got a rental, and even settled my case in less than 6 months.They were extremely polite, communicative, and on top of everything. I highly recommend reaching out to them for great legal representation.
GatorGator
19:20 08 Jun 22
Worked with Ryan and he helped me navigate the process of our law suit. Was in great communication throughout the process. 5 stars
Patrícia OsorioPatrícia Osorio
02:16 08 Jun 22
We had a great experience with Lyle and their team. The communication worked great, they had the patience to explain all the details to us and were responsive to our questions. We got a great settlement.
Perry CrawfordPerry Crawford
18:55 15 Apr 22
Lyle and his law group conducted themselves professionally and were very caring and concerned about my injury. My recovery was foremost on their minds.He fought for me relentlessly and got me what I truly deserved. His confidence and tenacity won the case decisively.Thanks Lyle.
Andrea ChlimperAndrea Chlimper
17:18 15 Apr 22
I highly recommend Lyle Long and his firm. Additional to a very very good settlement amount, Lyle and his staff were a pleasure to work with. Lyle walked me through the entire process from the moment I contacted him regarding my automobile accident. They were excellent with communication, returning my calls/emails and keeping me informed with updates and progress. Unfortunately, this is my 2nd time hiring his firm. My first experience was that positive that I never thought about hiring another firm to handle my legal matter.
TT
20:04 28 Mar 22
I highly recommend using this law firm. They’re super friendly, super helpful and very very professional. They had everything under control and dotted all the i’s and crossed all the t’s. I couldn’t be more happy with there service!!!
Viral-_-buildzViral-_-buildz
18:44 01 Feb 22
I got Into an accident 8/13/2021. A friend of mine told me to contact Ryan, I reached out to him the day after my accident ( which happened to be a weekend day ) and he immediately got right on the case. He was very helpful and I was literally able to reach out to him by phone or text any day and any time. He is always available. He set me up for all of my medical treatment and made sure I understood the whole entire process. He’s a great lawyer and is really on your side. My case was resolved in 4 months and my settlement was way more than I expected. I couldn’t be more thankful for him and his staff. They are excellent.Thank you Ryan,Latia J
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