what happens after my lawyer gave my ex a depotion

by Melany Schowalter 8 min read

After the attorney for one side completes their deposition of the other party, the other party’s attorney may then ask their client questions. These questions serve as “follow-up” or “clarifying” questions. If necessary, the other attorney may then ask “redirect” questions – questions relating to the follow-up or clarifying questions.

Full Answer

What can my attorney ask me during a deposition?

Your attorney may ask questions of you during the deposition, but typically your attorney will only ask questions of you in order to clarify a confusing answer. Like opposing counsel, your attorney may schedule and take depositions to help build your case.

What are my rights during a deposition?

You have a right to confer with your lawyer: At any time during the deposition, you will have the right to speak with your attorney privately regarding the question and your answer. Do not hesitate to exercise this right.

What happens if there is no judge at a deposition?

There is no judge or jury present. your attorney (or the attorney defending the deposition, if you are a witness and not a party) may make objections. These objections are to preserve the record. You may be told by the attorney to go ahead and answer the question despite an objection.

What is a deposition in a personal injury case?

What Is a Deposition? A deposition is pre-trial oral testimony taken under oath. In a deposition, the opposing attorney (counsel) will ask you various questions, and those questions and your answers will be recorded by an official court reporter.

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What is the process after deposition?

After the deposition, the lawyers will gather and review the transcription(s), documentation, and other evidence from the discovery period. Then, they will try to build a case based on what was revealed. At this point, it may become clear that a trial will only harm their client and they'll push for a settlement.

What does it mean to depose your ex?

Posted by admin May 23, 2019 Divorce & Separation, Family Law. A deposition is a legal process in which an attorney can obtain sworn testimony from a person without being in a courtroom before a judge.

What's the point of a deposition?

Deposition Basics The deposition has two purposes: 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 once that witness is on the stand.

What do you say and not say in a deposition?

Here are a few things to pay attention to while you are giving your deposition.Never Guess to Answer a Question. ... Avoid Any Absolute Statements. ... Do Not Use Profanity. ... Do Not Provide Additional Information. ... Avoid Making Light of the Situation. ... Never Paraphrase a Conversation. ... Do Not Argue or Act Aggressively.More items...•

What kind of questions can be asked in a divorce deposition?

6 Common Questions Asked in Divorce DepositionsWhat is your income? ( ... What are your children's interests? (Children) ... Do you partake in any recreational activities? (Recreational) ... What kind of hours do you work? (Work/Job) ... What are your living arrangements after divorce? (Living)More items...•

How do you show a narcissist in court?

Getting a narcissist to reveal themselves in court may be as easy as allowing them to talk about what a great parent they are to their children. Let them talk about how they spend time with the children doing homework, taking them to practice, and riding bicycles.

How long after deposition is settlement?

Depending on your state, that limit will vary. If you want the fastest time for a case to be settled after deposition, then we would say 4 months, but remember that that is the best case scenario with no hiccups along the way.

How do you win a deposition?

9 Tips for a Successful DepositionPrepare. ... Tell the Truth. ... Be Mindful of the Transcript. ... Answer Only the Question Presented. ... Answer Only as to What You Know. ... Stay Calm. ... Ask to See Exhibits. ... Don't Be Bullied.More items...

What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking a deposition?

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Taking an Oral DepositionObtain evidence from nonparties. ... Lock in testimony. ... Make personal observations. ... Obtain spontaneous responses. ... No numerical limit to questions. ... Defendant may obtain early discovery. ... May promote settlement.

What Cannot be asked in a deposition?

You have a right to refuse any questions about a person's health, sexuality, or religious beliefs (including your own). The opposing attorney will have to explain how your answer has a direct bearing on the case in order to compel you to answer.

Is a deposition scary?

The truth of the matter is that depositions are not nearly as scary as you might think. While depositions can be awkward and there might be some difficult questions for you to answer, if you have a good lawyer preparing you for the deposition, you will be fine.

Are depositions stressful?

Depositions are stressful, but you can do it if you follow the top five rules and prepare with your attorney. No need to over-prepare. The facts are what they are.

What is a deposition in law?

A deposition is a lot like a trial and trial testimony in that the person to be deposed (the deponent) is sworn in to answer questions under penalty of perjury.

What is the purpose of a deposition?

One purpose that should be apparent is obtaining information to prepare the case for trial before the judge or jury.

Why should answers to questions be specific and not rambling as a general rule?

This is because the broader the answer in response, the more ambiguity may be viewed to be in it and the more chance of it being deemed evasive or non-responsive.

What is discovery in a case?

Discovery is the method by which information is obtained to get a case ready to prove under the burden of proof at trial. In domestic cases, discovery typically includes written questions to the other party (which are called interrogatories), request to produce items, and/or deposition of a party. The discovery, including deposition questions, are ...

Who are Ciyou and Dixon?

Ciyou & Dixon, P.C. attorneys frequently field questions from their divorce clients about depositions .A large number of these questions come from clients who are about to be deposed by their spouse or ex-spouse in connection with divorce or post- divorce litigation.

Is a video deposition a video deposition?

In some cases, it is possible a deposition will be a video-deposition. This should not cause concern, but bolsters the comments above about the body language and non-verbal aspect of every witness statement. Where there is a video deposition, it important to remember this.

Can a deponent's attorney answer an objection?

At any point, the deponent’s attorney may provide any objection for purposes of the record. Once made, the deponent will answer unless instructed by his or her attorney not to do so. Instruction not to answer is fairly rare, but may occur, for example, if the deponent/attorney assert the Fifth Amendment Privilege against self-incrimination.

Why do attorneys ask questions during depositions?

Your attorney may ask questions of you during the deposition, but typically your attorney will only ask questions of you in order to clarify a confusing answer. Like opposing counsel, your attorney may schedule and take depositions to help build your case. If there are some issues about your case that you consider worrisome, ...

What is a deposition in court?

What Is a Deposition? A deposition is pre-trial oral testimony taken under oath. In a deposition, the opposing attorney (counsel) will ask you various questions, and those questions and your answers will be recorded by an official court reporter. There is little difference between testimony at a deposition and testimony in the courtroom, ...

Why do opposing counsel take depositions?

Depositions are extremely useful to opposing counsel. In a deposition, the opposing counsel will want to find out what you know regarding the issues in your lawsuit so that they can prepare for your testimony in advance of trial. The testimony you give in a deposition may be read at trial, so opposing counsel hopes to catch you in a lie or omission, because, if they were to do so, they could claim at trial that you are not a truthful person. Having established your dishonest character, they could then argue that your testimony should not be accepted as evidence of any of the important questions at trial. Remember, opposing counsel has every right to take your deposition for these purposes.

What to do if you are asked to supply documents?

If you are asked to supply documents or information, refer the opposing counsel to your attorney. Do not reach into your pocket for a social security card, driver’s license, or any other document, unless your attorney requests that you do so.

What to do if you don't know all the details?

You aren't expected to know all the details: If you do not know all the details, relax. Simply state what you do know and leave out the details. Do not give an answer that requires you to consult records not available at the deposition or requiring you to consult your friends and associates for the answer.

What to say when you don't know the answer to a question?

Don't guess: If you do not know the answer to a question, you should say that you do not know. You have a right to confer with your lawyer: At any time during the deposition, you will have the right to speak with your attorney privately regarding the question and your answer. Do not hesitate to exercise this right.

What are some suggestions for a deposition?

The following are suggestions to help you prepare to give you deposition: Always tell the truth: Failure to tell the truth in a deposition constitutes perjury, which is a felony. It can also damage your case if the truth comes out at trial.

What does the attorney ask in a deposition?

The attorney taking the deposition may ask that you answer any question that has been asked before you confer. If your need to confer relates to the question that has been asked, you can tell your attorney that that is the case and he will address it as the situation dictates. Rule 11.

How to avoid being emotional during a deposition?

Leave your emotions at home. While this is an important matter and certainly involves a level of emotional capital on your part, you have to try to avoid being emotional during the deposition. The attorney may ask you questions or act in a way that is intended to anger or upset you.

How to answer a question that is asked and nothing more?

Rule 2. Answer the question that is asked and nothing more. Even if you think that your answer is harmful, just answer the question asked. Do not try to elaborate. Elaborating or trying to explain will not help. Instead, it will give the attorney asking the questions more information from which to ask more questions.

Why do you have to elaborate on an answer during a deposition?

Usually, elaborating on an answer extends the deposition because you have given more information from which the attorney asking the questions can base more questions. Rule 3. Listen carefully to the questions being asked. It is not unusual for a person being deposed to try to think what the next question will be.

What to do if you don't understand a question?

Rule 8. If you do not understand the question being asked, ask the attorney to rephrase the question or to explain a word or words that are confusing you. You are not required to and you should not answer a question that you do not fully understand. Rule 9.

What happens if you don't listen to the question in a deposition?

An attorney taking a deposition may well be asking a line of questions and if you are not listening to the question, you will answer the question that you think is being asked ( based upon the prior line of questions) and not the question that was actually asked. Rule 4.

What to expect during a deposition?

A deposition is an opportunity for an attorney to question a witness or party to a case, while that person is under oath and while a court reporter is making a record of all of the questions, answers and statements made during the deposition .

Andrew Daniel Myers

Perfectly normal pre-trial procedure. Think of the deposition as part of the trial--missteps at deposition will impact your trial. IF you had an attorney, that attorney would be deposing your ex at some point.

Rixon Charles Rafter III

I cannot stress enough the importance of consulting with a lawyer before a deposition, and having him/her accompany you there. Some lawyers' approaches are relatively innocuous; others are extremely combative and confrontational, and in the latter case you will need an attorney there who's on your side and who can help protect you.

Ian Jeffrey Slavin

There are two main reasons to take an opposing party's deposition before a trial. The first is to gather information. The second is to "lock in" testimony for trial. When you answer questions at a deposition, your statements are made under oath, and have the same force as if you said them in court.

What are some secrets that a divorce lawyer may not want to share with you?

Below are twenty secrets that a divorce lawyer may not want to share with you. 1. It's going to cost more than you bargained for. It's not always the case—but more often than not, the costs associated with your divorce will often be higher than your lawyer's original estimate.

How do divorce lawyers save money?

That you'll save money and heartache by being organized. Divorce lawyers often charge by the hour. If you take responsibility for being as organized as possible, not only are you likely to walk away from your marriage with a more acceptable outcome, you'll probably save some money too.

What is mediation in divorce?

Mediation is a process whereby you and your spouse sit down with a neutral third party to negotiate several important areas of divorce. It's a low-cost way to address practically any other disagreement you and your spouse may have. While the mediator's decision is not binding, it allows a neutral party to provide their perspective on how divorce related issues should be addressed. However, mediation can only be a useful tool if you and your spouse can come to an broad agreement.

What does it mean to be uncontested in divorce?

An uncontested divorce means that you and your spouse agree child custody, spousal support, child support, visitation, and division of property. If you find that there is no need to fight over these things, you've already saved yourself thousands of dollars.

How to choose a divorce attorney?

There are several things to look for when choosing a divorce attorney. You want to choose someone who is experienced, respected, competent, and affordable. If they are proving to not be a good fit though, change them. Because you can, even if the reason is that you don't get on with him or her. Bear in mind however that if an attorney has worked on your case, you'll have to pay her/him for their time. Also, it might damage your case to change attorney's when you are close to a court ordered deadline, so only do it after careful consideration.

How to start a divorce?

One of the best and simplest ways to do that is to start a divorce file. In this file, keep every bit of paper that could have an effect on how your divorce proceedings. Gather copies of all important financial documents and access to all account information. Keep it organized and easy to navigate.

Can divorce be used for vengeance?

That the divorce process should never be used for vengeance. One of the secrets that your divorce lawyer might not want you to know is that divorce proceedings are not used punitively. Sometimes, parties want to stick it to their soon to be ex-spouse as recompense for something they did.

Do you have to give consent to a lawyer to text you?

You are not required to provide consent as a condition of service. Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary.

Do old lawyers deserve more money?

You may feel that your old lawyer doesn't deserve any more money. But you need to weigh these costs against the harm that could be done to your legal interests if your old lawyer acts in bad faith and holds documents hostage. It might be better to pay your bill in order to facilitate a clean break of the relationship.

Do you have to charge a fee for copying documents?

Your new attorney will want to communicate with that body and make sure it sends any new correspondence, such as motions from the opposing party, directly to the new attorney.) Your attorney should not charge you a fee for copying the documents in your file.

Can I ask my old dentist to forward my X-rays?

If you've ever switched dentists, you may have faced the awkward situation of asking your old dentist to forward your X-rays and records to your new dentist. Switching attorneys presents a similar problem. If you are thinking about leaving your old lawyer for a new one—and there are several reasons you might choose to do so—one question you're ...

Do you have to hand over documents to an attorney?

Upon request, an attorney is required to promptly hand over the contents of your case files. Under the American Bar Association's Model Rule 1.16 (d) (which has been adopted by most U.S. states), an attorney must, to comply with ethical and professional standards, " [surrender] papers and property to which the client is entitled and [refund] any advance payment of fee or expense that has not been earned or incurred" as soon as the representation is terminated.

What happens if an attorney liases with your spouse?

If an attorney manages to liase many or all all your issues, then you have already lost, especially if they have told you not to talk to the spouse and they have served their purpose by fait accompli. If it comes down to money, you have lost, that is the level of basic understanding marriage has become for males.

What happens if you appeal a family court decision?

If you do decide to appeal the decisions of the family court, the Supreme Court, no less, will very likely uphold and support the malfeasance of the family court because the antics of the lower court personnel mirror those of the Supreme Court. I bet the family court personnel have recognized this and are busy minting.

Did the gal investigate any of the leads I gave him?

The gal did not investigate any of the leads I gave him. The magistrate had a stay for seven months. And the clerk of courts refused to send out the subpoenas. The clerk of courts told my attorney’s staff they were to short of staff to fax the subpoenas over my attorney’s office the day before the trial.

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What Is A Deposition?

  • A deposition is pre-trial oral testimonytaken under oath. In a deposition, the opposing attorney (counsel) will ask you various questions, and those questions and your answers will be recorded by an official court reporter. There is little difference between testimony at a deposition and testimony in the courtroom, except that there is no judge pre...
See more on findlaw.com

Purpose of A Deposition

  • Depositions are extremely useful to opposing counsel. In a deposition, the opposing counsel will want to find out what you know regarding the issues in your lawsuit so that they can prepare for your testimony in advanceof trial. The testimony you give in a deposition may be read at trial, so opposing counsel hopes to catch you in a lie or omission, because, if they were to do so, they co…
See more on findlaw.com

Suggestions For Preparation

  • The following are suggestions to help you prepare to give you deposition: 1. Always tell the truth: Failure to tell the truth in a deposition constitutes perjury, which is a felony. It can also damage your case if the truth comes out at trial. 2. Listen to the question: Do not answer any question unless you hear it clearly and completely. You may ask the attorney or the court reporter to repe…
See more on findlaw.com