Family Law Explained

What Our Clients Say

Client Resources

Choose Your Fate: Seven Courtless Divorce Options

Custody & Visitation

Alimony & Spousal Support

Popular Articles

Bringing the Magic

I had a case in which I was retained, not for a collaborative matter, but for litigation. (Back then, I still had the reputation for being “an aggressive family law trial attorney.”)

Read More »

Growing Apart

Overheard among a group of middle school boys drinking mochas in a coffeehouse, as one tastes another’s coffee: “That is so ridiculously sweet! That’s like something a five-year-old would make!”

Read More »

Depositions

Depositions in Tampa

A deposition is a witness’ sworn out-of-court testimony. It is used to gather information as part of the discovery process and, in limited circumstances, may be used at trial. The purpose of a deposition is to find out what the witness knows and to preserve that witness’ testimony. The intent is to allow the parties to learn all of the facts before the trial, so that no one is surprised at trial. It can be used to prove perjury if a witness tries to change his/her testimony at trial. During a deposition, an opposing attorney asks the deponent questions about the case in an attempt to gather information that may be helpful to the case. A court reporter records the testimony with a stenography machine, and then creates a written transcript to be used at trial.

Depositions Solutions

The attorneys of Open Palm Law are skilled in both taking and defending depositions. Whether the deposition is a part of your own case, or you are asked to be deposed as a witness in another’s case, let Open Palm Law protect you and fight for your best interests during your deposition.

FAQs for Depositions

Yes. You will have the opportunity to review the record and make corrections, but generally, the reporter’s word will prevail. Therefore, it is important to be represented by an attorney during your deposition to avoid being misrepresented.

No. You must answer honestly, as you are answering under oath.

A deposition may be videotaped if it is going to be used to impeach a witness. Seeing a witness contradict himself has a greater impact than just reading back the written transcript. Or, it may be videotaped to preserve the witness’ testimony in case the witness becomes unavailable. Also, videotaped testimony can provide more insight to those preparing the case for trial.