The last thing you want to do is to be judged on something other than the merits of your case. Describing these six items will make your clients feel confident as they arrive at a deposition. This is why it is important to prepare witnesses prior to depositions. Your injuries: You may be asked about the state of your health after the injury, including information about your treatments, prognosis, the timeline of your medical care, and how the injury has affected your life and ability to work. There's no better way to make a first impression than by what you wear to court. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP, we focus on all aspects of an injury case and will always go the extra mile to make sure that you are fully prepared for your video deposition. As Josh explains in the video below, if you're going to a deposition, treat your outfit planning like you would a job interview. She also has participated as a delegate on its Russia trip in October of '08. Christine began her reporting career in 1981 when the computer-compatible theory was in its early years. Dressing for Your Deposition. Colors and patterns that look good in person don't always translate well to video. After the deposition is completed, the stenographer will transcribe his or her notes and prepare a word-for-word transcript of the entire deposition. Start fresh Your hair should be washed and neatly brushed. A white tablecloth or even sheet of white paper on the desk or table just in front of you will reflect light up toward you. It is important that your outfit is not flashy.
Coco Chanel famously says that women remove one accessory before leaving the house. To prevent a stenographic error from jeopardizing your case, you will be offered the opportunity to review the transcript for stenographic errors. Never wear dirty clothes. The witness being deposed is called the "deponent. Men should wear: - A suit with tie or a blazer. Our attorneys at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP can prepare you for the deposition to ensure that you understand how it works and the kinds of questions you will be asked. If you or a loved one was recently injured in a South Carolina accident, the Steinberg Law Firm is here to help. What to do at a deposition. Can you wear jeans to court? In such cases, work out the required set-up beforehand by having your attorney advise you about how you appear. Conservative blouse and long slacks.
But here's the extra trick: go one more. Moving to the nitty gritty, here are some things we see when we serve as the court reporter: - Most men will wear a collared shirt, oftentimes with a jacket and tie. Likewise, the expert's attire also sets off non-verbal cues as to credibility. What should i wear to a deposition. Flats or shoes with a low heel are often the best options. If you are a woman, check your neckline, that your shirt covers your waistline (raise your arms over your head to make sure), and that your skirt isn't too short. While they are a part of you, they could, in some cases, give the judge a poor impression. If you will be having your deposition taken and you are simply a witness, then what you wear is not critical. They may also ask questions about previous medical history and their work history. Second, business casual attire might simply better reflect your area of expertise.
The errata sheet is then signed and dated by the deponent and sent back to your lawyer for forwarding to the stenographer. Avoid clothing with band logos as well. That way, no one is caught off guard once the witness takes the stand. If you anticipate any special needs, such as handicapped access or periodic breaks for the administration of medications, be sure to alert your lawyer in advance. It doesn't matter if you're looking to avoid summary judgements or hoping to get a large settlement from the court. As long as you follow a few simple rules about what you should wear to court and what you should avoid, you can be confident that you're not making a bad impression and that the judge or jury will be able to concentrate on your case and not your appearance. 10 RULES FOR DRESSING FOR COURT. Once again, while attorneys are not necessarily the star of the show in a remote deposition, they should be able to question the witness and advocate for the client just as effectively as if they were in the courtroom or other in-person setting. If you are wearing a skirt suit, for instance, wear pantyhose, heels and a scarf or a brooch or a substantial piece of jewelry.
In addition to this, these pieces are often not professional. What Is a Deposition? It is also wise to have a fresh haircut and well-maintained facial hair. Avoid anything too tight or too baggy. Why is Your Outfit Important at a Deposition?
Do not wear shorts, workout clothes, sandals, hats (or any headwear), or clothes that are wrinkled, dirty, or damaged. For many people, the prospect of being questioned under oath in connection with a pending legal action can be a source of severe anxiety. If you have a beard and/or mustache, make sure it's trimmed or combed neatly. Skip the bright colors and apply it lightly. To ensure that the testimony taken from the deponent (the party to be questioned) is accurately recorded and preserved, the law prescribes certain rules for taking deposition testimony. How to dress for a deposition hearing. No low necklines, stiletto heels, tight jeans (actually, avoid jeans altogether), or sleeveless shirts. However, in many cases depositions are attended by both attorneys involved in the case as well as the opposing party. While you can feel free to express yourself outside the courtroom, doing so with inappropriate clothing inside the courtroom runs the risk of having the judge think poorly of you. In practice, witnesses are dressed as if they were attending a job interview, and some of the same rules apply. Avoid using too much cologne or wearing jewelry.
Should I be nervous for a deposition? This will always be to your benefit in legal proceedings. Even though a jury is not present at the deposition, it is still very important that you look your best. Sometimes, your deposition will even be recorded on video to be shown in the courtroom to the judge and the jury. NEVER wear a hat or sunglasses into the courtroom. Gesturing too much (nervousness).
The defense attorney is going to try to catch you off guard, make you seem nervous, and generally try to get you to ruin your case. Proper preparation for a court date or deposition includes hiring an attorney, determining the time and location of the appearance, and dressing appropriately. Sit about three feet from the camera lens. In any situation, the outfit you wear to a deposition should portray a clean-cut appearance. Victory for the next generation of litigators may depend on the extent to which they can thrive in a mostly virtual professional arena. Other than car keys and eye glasses, I tell my clients not to bring anything with them into the deposition room. What to Wear to a Deposition: Complete Guide. If you work at an office with a "business casual" dress code, then your wardrobe already contains what you likely need to look good. While few deponents treat their deposition as anything but a serious and important event, let there be no issue as to the severe consequences of giving false testimony. After carpal tunnel surgery and the need to work "on the business" and not "in the business, " she has continued on managing the firm with a mantra of "Moving Forward with Technology and Excellence.