If a personal injury claim does not reach a mutually
acceptable settlement, the only option is to take it to trial. When a plaintiff
knocks on the court’s doors, the case takes a formal turn and a series of official
proceedings are set into motion.
The first step before the trial is a discovery process where
both sides seek detailed information about the case. The plaintiff will be
called to give a deposition – an oral testimony under oath in the presence of a
court reporter.
This forms a crucial juncture in the case and expert personal injury lawyers in Los Angeles, California will make it a
point to prepare their clients for the deposition.
·
The attorney will educate the client about what
lies in store - the procedures involved in a deposition, the significance of
the testimony, who will be present and other ground rules.
·
The attorney will thrash out the facts and
issues of the case, review the prior statements and discuss possible questions that
he anticipates from the opposing counsel.
·
The plaintiff will be counseled to speak the
truth at all times. Any inconsistent statements during a deposition can damage
the plaintiff’s credibility and affect the outcome of the case. It is better to
say ‘I don’t know’ or ‘I don’t recall’ rather than lying or trying to cover
detrimental facts.
·
Other pointers will include listening to the
questions carefully and asking clarifications if needed. The plaintiff will be
advised to pause slightly and consider before responding so that the answer is
correct. This will also allow the attorney an opportunity to object if needed.
· The attorney will also direct the plaintiff to
stick to the facts with short and direct answers. Avoid guesswork or
speculation and do not indulge in unnecessary or protracted explanations.
This way skilled and experienced personal
injury lawyers in Los Angeles,
California – like Kahn Roven LLP (www.kahnroven.com)
will ensure that the plaintiff is properly prepped and yet relaxed and natural
during the deposition.
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