When involved in a car accident lawsuit, it is of vital importance that the court receives all necessary information regarding the circumstances behind the accident as well as details on the accident itself. Getting this information tends to involve a number of legal hurdles, for which having a professional car accident attorney on your side is crucial. In either case, a deposition is typically the preferred method by which the court obtains the necessary information.
The team at Peter Davis & Associates has represented many accident victims as they struggle to receive just compensation. If you were therefore recently in a car crash and are now considering a future court date, you should first educate yourself on the deposition process.
What Is a Deposition?
A deposition is a method through which parties (typically via their attorneys) are able to ask each other any number of questions regarding the car accident. These questions and answers are then recorded for the court and used during the trial phase. Individuals of whom a deposition may be taken include the following: the drivers themselves, any passengers in the cars, any other witnesses, doctors who cared for one or both of the parties, and the investigating police officer.
Who Is Present at a Deposition?
Unlike full trials, depositions tend to be fairly small and attended by only a few people. These individuals will likely include: the attorney requesting the deposition, any witnesses and their attorneys, and a court reporter.
What Questions Can You Expect?
An attorney will typically start a deposition by asking basic questions regarding the identity of the questioned individual and his or her connection to the accident case. Any further questions will likely be tailored to fit the purpose of the deposition. For example, an accident victim may be questioned on the nature of the injuries sustained, or a police officer may be questioned on details from the scene.
How Long Do Depositions Last?
Depositions are usually planned well in advance to minimize any unforeseen scheduling errors, and anyone being deposed will receive notice at least five business days prior. Once the deposition is officially underway, you can expect it to last a couple hours at least.
Where Does the Deposition Take Place?
Depositions can take place anywhere, though for the most part, depositions will be held at a location close to where the deposed individual lives. In other words, if the deposed witness lives in Paterson, New Jersey, their deposition will not occur in Boston. Furthermore, the deposition itself can occur in a courthouse, conference center, doctor’s office, private residence, or any such similar venue.
Find Out More about Car Accident Depositions
Depositions are meant to help the court get to the bottom of a particular issue, and when it comes to car accidents, this information really is critical. That being said, you should never go into a deposition alone, which is where Peter Davis & Associates can help.
Industry veterans for many years, our attorneys are fully qualified at handling your deposition or further educating you on what exactly a deposition is. For all other information, contact one of our representatives today.