Personal injury cases may require a deposition from the injured party. Though many people have heard of depositions, some don’t know what this word actually means. A New Mexico personal injury deposition is a legal term referring to the process in which the opposing counsel poses questions in the conference room of a law firm.
There is no reason to fear the deposition. This is a necessary component of the legal process that ultimately ends up being less stressful than most injured individuals assume. Our legal team is here to help you recover compensation for your New Mexico personal injury. We can help you prepare for the deposition so you are completely confident and comfortable.
What Happens During the New Mexico Personal Injury Deposition Process?
A New Mexico personal injury deposition involves testimony from the plaintiff (the injured party). Witnesses to the incident who are not plaintiffs or defendants might also face questions by one or both attorneys. A court reporter will type a transcript (or record) of everything said during the deposition. Subsequently, important evidence from the testimony can support motions.
The deposition testimony might also be read aloud in court if the case reaches trial.Though a judge is not in the room, you will have to take an oath to speak the truth as if you were testifying in a court of law. Opposing counsel will ask questions to obtain information about the case. This process will also help gauge how the jury will perceive you.
Why the Deposition Process Is Nothing to Fear
If you are nervous about the personal injury deposition process, rest easy. Our legal team will meet with you prior to the deposition. This guidance will calm your nerves, prepare you for the upcoming deposition and put you at ease. Our New Mexico injury attorney will likely review your case documents. This review will help you recall the details of the injury.
We can even rehearse the deposition process ahead of time by posing the most frequently asked questions. This gives you the opportunity to formulate answers prior to the day of the actual deposition. Though a deposition will certainly take up some time, it is absolutely essential to your quest for justice and fair compensation.
Overall, your attorney’s goal is to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your personal injury deposition, ensuring that you can effectively communicate your side of the story and protect your legal interests.
Questions Asked During a New Mexico Personal Injury Deposition
Once you are sworn in, opposing counsel will request you adhere to his or her rules. Such rules typically include asking for clarification for unclear questions and not talking over the questions.
The attorney representing the defendant will likely ask if you have had any issues with the injured body site(s) prior to the accident. Do not hesitate to state you do not remember or are unsure. When in doubt, do not commit to a “yes” or “no” answer. Such a careful approach will make it much more difficult for opposing counsel to portray you as a liar.
You might also have to answer questions about medical records or other reports. If such questions are posed, request to see the document(s) referenced. The defense attorney might also request you discuss what another individual wrote in a report. If you do not remember, tell the attorney to ask the individual who generated the report or record.
After the deposition, your attorney will review the transcript with you and discuss any areas that may require follow-up or clarification.
Our Attorneys Can Help With Your New Mexico Personal Injury Case
You deserve compensation for any type of auto, slip and fall, soft tissue, and other personal injuries caused by the negligence of another person or entity. If you are the victim of an injury, reach out to our proven legal team today.
Contact us by dialing (505) 544-4444. Our office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. yet we will gladly take your call 24/7. You can also contact us through our website’s LiveChat feature or a convenient FREE online form.