Rules for Giving a Deposition in a Florida Personal Injury Case (Part 2)
When giving a deposition in a Florida personal injury case, there are several rules you need to follow. Not following these rules can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Acting in a particular manner, not doing certain things, or saying certain things during your deposition can adversely affect the outcome of your personal injury case. In one of our previous articles titled, “6 Rules for Giving a Deposition in a Florida Personal Injury Case,” some of the rules we talked about that you need to follow when giving a deposition in a Florida personal injury case include preparing well in advance, telling the truth, paying attention to questions, and avoiding guessing. In this article, we share five more rules for giving a deposition in a Florida personal injury case.
Dress Well
Among the most crucial things you need to do when giving a deposition in a Florida personal injury case is ensuring you dress well. It might seem like what you wear to your personal injury deposition is not a big deal. But while pictures of what you wore to your deposition cannot be presented as evidence in a court of law, it is crucial that you pay attention to what you wear to your deposition. How you look can play a significant role in how you are perceived. The amount of respect the opposing attorney gives you during your disposition may depend on how you are dressed.
While there are no hard and fast rules regarding how to dress for a personal injury deposition, try to dress professionally. For instance, wear something you would wear to a formal job interview.
Avoid Nodding or Shaking Your Head When Answering Questions
During your deposition, you should use clear words when answering questions. Do not nod or shake your head when asked a no or yes question. Additionally, avoid saying things like “uh-huh.” If you nod or shake your head or say something like “uh-huh,” it is like you haven’t answered a question at all.
Do Not Be Intimidated
Another crucial rule regarding personal injury depositions is you should not let the defendant’s attorney intimidate you. Be confident during your deposition, and do not allow the opposing party to upset you. If you get angry, you might say things the defendant’s attorney can use against you.
Ask To See a Copy of the Transcript
Attorneys use deposition transcripts to prepare for another deposition, trial, or other legal proceedings. Ensure you ask to see a copy of the transcript as soon as possible after the deposition. Go through the transcript, and if you find any mistakes, inform your lawyer so they can take the necessary action.
Do Not Fall Victim to the Narrative Fallacy
Finally, you should avoid the narrative fallacy during your personal injury deposition. The narrative fallacy is the tendency to forcefully compile facts and create a story that may be untrue. A skilled attorney can guide you on how to avoid the narrative fallacy.
Contact Us for Legal Help
Contact our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for help with your personal injury case.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Myers, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, Ocala, Orlando, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/deposition
