Preparing for a Deposition: Nervousness Not Required

Nervous about going to a deposition and giving testimony, either as a plaintiff, witness or defendant? If you're nervous or apprehensive about a deposition, you've seen too many episodes of "The Practice." Some of my editorial-business clients are court reporters. I have proofread thousands of depositions over the years, so I know exactly what's involved in depositions. Court reporters record every word that's spoken in a deposition with a special machine. Ever see video clips of trials, and while people are speaking, a woman is sitting nearby doing what appears to be typing? This is a court reporter. Court reporters also do this "typing" at depositions.

A court reporter catches every word, every "uh huh" and every "umm" at a deposition. My job is to make sure the court reporter did not make any typographical errors. This means I must read every word of a deposition transcript. Though TV shows make depositions look intimidating, this is only for dramatic effect. If TV shows characterized depositions the way they truly are, you'd fall asleep with the remote in your hand. Trust me: There is absolutely NOTHING to be afraid or nervous about regarding a deposition.

Depositions often take place at a law firm in a conference room. You'll be offered gourmet or high-grade coffee. Brownies and cookies have also been known to appear at depositions. There is plenty of ice cold water. If you're nervous about giving a deposition, I can tell you right now that in many depositions, the attorney(s) who's going to be "examining" you -- that is, asking you questions about the case, will actually be too NICE. The attorney will start out by explaining to you the deposition process.