Nervous About Your Deposition? Here Are Some Simple Tips To Help You Prepare

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If you have a workers' compensation case and you have hired an attorney – you've made a great choice. However, hiring an attorney is only the first step. Before bringing finality to your claim, there are various stages through which your case must progress, including a deposition. For most, the thought of being grilled by another attorney makes them break out into a sweat; however, you can successfully complete your deposition without stress. Here is a brief idea of what to expect and a couple of tips to help you through the process.

What to Expect

In the simplest of terms, a deposition is a testimony you make under oath. During the deposition, you are asked a series of questions. Background information about yourself, including prior medical conditions, information about the accident and treatment are just some of the different types of questions you will be asked. Your attorney, the attorney representing your employer and a court reporter are typically present during the process. In some cases, the deposition is also recorded and saved as evidence.

Helpful Tips

Don't Volunteer Information

When asked a question by another attorney, make sure you are only answering what they are asking. Do not volunteer any additional information. For example, say your employer's representation asked you whether or not you were injured.

The best response to this question would be a simple "yes" or "no." Saying "yes" and then going on to give a detailed description of injuries is volunteering too much information. During your description you could easily misrepresent your injuries, which could come back to haunt you later on down the line. Only answer what you've been asked.

Keep Your Composure

It's imperative that you remain calm and composed throughout your entire deposition. This is especially important because if your deposition is filmed, you never know if the video will be shown in court. For example, if each time you are asked a question about your employer you show irritation or seem disgruntle, this could make you look like and less than credible person.

If a judge or jury is able to recognize your anger this might lead them to believe that you simply don't like your employer and are only looking to be vindictive. Even if you are angry or upset, keep your emotions inside and stick to the facts.

Your attorney will also be able to help you prepare for your deposition. Make certain you are using your attorney as a guide to ensure success.

Talk to experts like http://leifericksonlawoffice.net for more information. 

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