What Is a Deposition?

Patty from Green Ridge asks, "What is a deposition?" Simply stated, a deposition is someone's testimony taken before trial. Depositions can be used for discovery to find out what someone is going to say before they testify at trial, or it can be used to preserve and present testimony at a future date. Depositions are recorded by stenographers - someone who typewrites everything that's said, both the questions and the answers. They may also be video-recorded. So, not only can a jury listen to what is said, they can assess someone's demeanor by observing how they express their answers. Frankly, a deposition is a lawyer's most valuable tool to discover what happened and to present evidence at trial.

Since 1906, our PA injury lawyers have successfully represented thousands of clients in serious personal injury cases, including PA car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, PA medical malpractice, PA worker's comp, slip and fall, product-related injuries and Social Security disability claims. Our PA criminal defense attorneys represent defendants in all types of summary, misdemeanor and felony cases ranging from DUI cases to major crimes in both state and federal courts.

Powell Law is Northeastern Pennsylvania's oldest PA personal injury law firm. It was established by our grandfather, Attorney James J. Powell Sr., on the principles of honor, integrity and trust. For three generations, we have upheld those principles every day - in every case.