Deposition Preparation Outline

1. Witness Information

• Name and role: [Witness Name/Title]
• Relationship to case: [Fact/Expert/Party]
• Deposition date, time, location (in-person/remote)
• Court reporter/videographer details

2. Objectives

• Establish facts: [List key points]
• Impeach opposing testimony: [List contradictions]
• Preserve testimony for trial/motions
• Evaluate witness credibility

3. Key Documents for Review

• Pleadings and discovery responses
• Relevant contracts, emails, reports
• Photographs, diagrams, demonstratives
• Prior statements/testimony
• Expert disclosures (if applicable)

4. Legal Issues and Themes

• Elements of claims/defenses impacted by witness
• Applicable statutes/regulations
• Burden of proof considerations

5. Outline of Questions

A. Background and Personal Information

1. Name, address, occupation, education
2. Relationship to parties
3. Prior deposition/testimony history

B. Role in Events

1. Timeline of involvement
2. Duties/responsibilities
3. Observations and actions

C. Documents and Communications

1. Authentication of documents
2. Emails, texts, meeting notes
3. Record retention practices

D. Substantive Topic Areas

• Topic 1: [Describe]
• Key questions
• Exhibits to introduce
• Topic 2: [Describe]
• Key questions
• Exhibits to introduce

E. Damages/Financial Matters (if relevant)

• Costs, invoices, calculations
• Insurance coverage

F. Expert Testimony (if witness is expert)

• Qualifications and publications
• Methodology and data relied upon
• Opinions and bases
• Prior testimony/compensation

G. Closing Questions

• Clarify ambiguous answers
• Identify additional documents or witnesses
• Confirm corrections/changes needed
• Preserve objections or privilege assertions

6. Anticipated Objections and Responses

• Privilege issues
• Instructions not to answer
• Protective orders/scope limitations

7. Exhibits List

8. Logistics and Technology

• Remote platform link and instructions
• Break schedule and confidentiality measures
• Deposition etiquette reminders (no coaching, speak clearly)

9. Post-Deposition Follow-Up

• Transcript review deadline and errata
• Supplementary discovery requests
• Motion practice considerations (summary judgment, sanctions)
• Trial preparation notes

10. Preparation Checklist

• ☐ Provide witness with preparation memorandum and schedule
• ☐ Conduct practice session/mock questioning
• ☐ Review exhibits and ensure clean copies
• ☐ Confirm interpreter/accommodations if needed
• ☐ Coordinate with court reporter for exhibits and remote logistics

Use this outline to ensure thorough preparation and effective deposition execution.