Deposition

In one sentence

A formal out-of-court questioning of a witness or party under oath, with a transcript recorded.

Plain English

A deposition is a question-and-answer session where a lawyer questions a witness or party to a lawsuit under oath, usually before trial. A court reporter records everything that's said and creates a transcript. Depositions help lawyers gather information, lock in testimony, and prepare for trial. The person being deposed can be forced to attend via subpoena.

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Example

In a personal injury case, the plaintiff's lawyer deposes the defendant's employee to learn what the defendant knew about unsafe conditions at the workplace.

Used in a sentence

“During the deposition, the witness testified that she had never seen the defective product before.”

Related terms

Subpoena

A court order requiring someone to testify in court or produce documents or evidence.

Affidavit

A written statement sworn under oath before an authorized official, used as evidence in court.

Voir Dire

The questioning process used to select impartial jurors for a trial.

Impeachment

Attacking a witness's credibility or reliability by presenting contradictory evidence.

incriminating statement

A statement made by someone that suggests they committed a crime or participated in criminal activity.

Discovery

The legal process where parties exchange information and evidence before trial.

Class Action

A lawsuit where one person or group sues on behalf of many people with similar claims.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.