Lawyer how-to

How to Prepare a Witness for a Deposition

Prepared witnesses testify better.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Prepared witnesses testify better. In short: explain; review; practice, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Explain the process.

  2. Review key documents.

  3. Practice questions.

  4. Teach to pause before answering.

  5. Answer only what is asked.

  6. Stay calm.

Safety reminders for lawyers

  • Protect client confidentiality
  • Avoid conflicts of interest
  • Follow professional conduct rules
  • Manage stress and burnout

J.D. · Bar exam · Litigation · Plaintiff · Defendant · Motion: see the full lawyer glossary.

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