Hidden Costs of a Car Accident Every Victim Should Know Before Filing a Claim
On behalf of Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer
Facing a deposition is one of the most stressful steps in a personal injury case. You may worry about what questions will be asked, how long it will last, or whether a mistake could harm your claim. While it is a serious process, with proper preparation and attorney support, it can actually strengthen your case.
At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we have decades of experience preparing Missouri clients for depositions. Our attorneys provide the tools, confidence, and guidance needed to face defense attorneys with clarity and credibility.
Key Takeaways
- A deposition is sworn testimony recorded outside of court.
- Preparation with your attorney helps reduce stress and build confidence.
- Common questions focus on your background, accident details, and the effect of injuries.
- Calm and consistent testimony strengthens credibility.
- A well-handled deposition can increase the likelihood of a fair settlement.
- Your attorney plays an active role by objecting to improper questions and protecting your rights.
- Strong depositions often shape settlement negotiations in your favor.
- Mental preparation and emotional support are just as necessary as legal prep.
What Is a Deposition?
A deposition is sworn testimony given outside of the courtroom but under oath. A court reporter records it and may later be used in settlement talks or at trial. Attorneys from both sides attend, and sometimes insurance representatives are also present.
As explained by Cornell Law School’s Legal Information Institute, Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 30 governs depositions, allowing attorneys to question witnesses under oath during the discovery process. This process helps both sides gather facts and assess the strength of a case.
In Missouri, depositions are common in personal injury lawsuits. They provide each side with insight into how witnesses may perform at trial. Our attorneys prepare clients thoroughly so they can testify truthfully and confidently, knowing what to expect.
How to Prepare Effectively
Preparation is the key to success. Before a deposition, your attorney will help you:
- Review your accident details, medical records, and prior statements.
- Practice potential questions in mock sessions.
- Organize documents such as bills, pay stubs, and treatment records.
At HEHN, we tailor preparation to each client. This detailed approach helps clients feel calm, reduces surprises, and ensures testimony is consistent and accurate. When you step into the deposition room, you should feel equipped to answer questions clearly and without hesitation.
Common Questions You Might Be Asked
Defense attorneys often focus on four main areas:
- Personal background: Employment, education, prior injuries, and health history.
- Accident details: Where, when, and how the crash happened.
- Medical treatment: Specific injuries, doctors’ visits, procedures, and ongoing symptoms.
- Daily impact: How your injuries affect your work, home responsibilities, hobbies, and emotional health.
Insurance attorneys look for inconsistencies. That is why practicing with your lawyer is vital. At HEHN, we anticipate common defense strategies and prepare clients to respond clearly and truthfully.
Do’s and Don’ts During Testimony
How you answer is just as important as what you say:
- Do: Listen carefully, take your time, and answer only what is asked.
- Don’t: Guess, argue, exaggerate, or volunteer unnecessary details.
The American Bar Association notes that depositions allow attorneys to evaluate a witness’s credibility. Staying calm, respectful, and concise helps strengthen your case. Our attorneys remind clients that honesty and composure are the best strategies.
Role of Your Attorney in a Deposition
Your lawyer plays an active role during the deposition. At HEHN, our attorneys:
- Conduct mock practice sessions beforehand.
- Object to improper or misleading questions.
- Ensure the record accurately reflects your testimony.
- Step in to clarify when the defense attempts to twist words.
Because our attorneys are seasoned trial lawyers, we understand the tactics insurance attorneys use. This experience allows us to protect our clients at every stage.
How Depositions Affect Settlement
Depositions directly influence settlement negotiations. A well-prepared, credible client sends a strong message to insurers: if this case goes to trial, the jury will likely find them believable. This often prompts insurers to make fair settlement offers.
The ABA highlights how deposition performance can shape litigation outcomes and settlement discussions. At HEHN, we have resolved cases favorably because our clients impressed during depositions, giving us leverage at the negotiating table.
How to Mentally Prepare
A deposition is not just a legal exercise; it is also an emotional challenge. Many clients feel nervous about speaking under oath. We help them mentally prepare by encouraging:
- Breathing and stress-reduction techniques.
- Confidence in saying “I don’t recall” if unsure.
- Remember that nerves are normal.
- Relying on attorney support throughout the process.
Our client-first approach ensures that we support not only your legal strategy but also your peace of mind.
FAQs
How long does a deposition last?
Most last several hours, though complex cases may extend longer.
Can my attorney stop a deposition?
Yes. Attorneys can object or pause proceedings to protect clients.
What happens if I don’t remember something?
It is better to say “I don’t recall” than to guess.
Who sees the transcript?
Both sides receive the transcript, which may be used in court or during settlement talks.
Do I have to answer every question?
You must answer truthfully, but your attorney can object to improper or irrelevant questions.
What should I wear to a deposition?
Dress neatly and professionally. First impressions matter to opposing counsel and insurance representatives.
Can a deposition be rescheduled if I am unable to attend due to illness or other reasons?
Yes, with reasonable notice, depositions can often be rescheduled.
Will my deposition be video recorded?
Sometimes. Depositions may be videotaped in addition to the transcript, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Wrap-Up: Turning Anxiety Into Strength
Depositions can feel intimidating, but with preparation, they become an opportunity to strengthen your claim. Clear, consistent answers demonstrate credibility, which can increase the likelihood of a fair settlement.
At Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer, we combine decades of courtroom experience with a compassionate, client-first approach. We guide clients through every step, ensuring they feel confident and protected.
Do not face a deposition unprepared. Contact us today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.
About Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer
Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer is a Missouri-based law firm with decades of success representing injury victims. Our attorneys have secured multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements by thoroughly preparing clients for depositions, discovery, and trial. We are dedicated to a client-first approach, working on a contingency fee basis, so clients never pay unless we recover compensation on their behalf.
Learn more about us and why Missouri victims trust us with their most important cases.
