Tips for Your Workers’ Comp Deposition
A worker’s compensation deposition is a statement made under oath to a defense attorney in a court of law. These depositions often form the backbone against much of what an individual receives from their claim. For this reason it is imperative you speak with a dedicated and knowledgeable benefits attorney before taking the stand. Depositions by their very nature can be intimidating, thorough and often times deliberately confusing. To avoid any unnecessary complications, contact the Kenton Koszdin Law Office today.
Our legal team has had many years of experience coaching and counseling injured workers who plan to give their deposition. With the right amount of preparation and keen insight provided by Attorney Kenton Koszdin, you will be more than ready to take on the questions. Don’t let the opportunity to present a clear and honest picture of your injuries go by – call the Kenton Koszdin Law Office today. We will provide a free and comprehensive consultation when you call (800) 437-7734.
What Kind of Questions Are in a Deposition?
For most people, going before a court and explaining themselves tends to be a bit nerve wracking. But it need not be. Workers’ compensation depositions are a number of things for the defense: it is a chance to gather information, size you up as a person, and potentially catch you in a deception. So long as the information you present is clear, to the point and unquestionably honest – you have done all you can do.
Contrary to some myths, deposition questions are fairly straight forward and are designed to gather a few key items of information. It is how these questions are asked and how you respond that makes all the difference. The following are some of the basics:
Who Are You?
Name, address, place of birth, driver’s license number; the essentials. Additionally they will want to know who your spouse is and if you have any children. One of the key pieces of information they will want to gather is whether or not you are legally able to work in the United States.
Where Did You Work Before?
This section of the deposition is designed to gather your work history and what kind of employee you are/were. Where did you work prior, were you ever fired from a job and were you ever injured while under someone’s employ?
Have You Ever Been Injured Before?
Medical history is probably the biggest section of the evaluation, depending on your current health and previous conditions. The questioning attorney will want to know whether you were in any previous accidents, persistent conditions, disabilities past and present, and psychological issues you may have dealt with – in general, a complete and detailed overview of your person. Be aware that with this line of questioning, as well as all of the subjects covered here, the defense will be scrutinizing very personal parts of your life. Your private affairs will be discussed openly in court, so having proper representation to coach you beforehand is critical to success.
How Did Your Accident Occur?
The most obvious and sometimes the most difficult question to tackle. While each attorney has a different approach to this, you are advised to speak clearly, use yes or no answers and do not spend time meandering or thinking out loud. Anything you say can be used against you, so you’ll want to avoid unnecessary discussion. And above all, you must tell the truth. Nothing can end your request quicker than lying on the stand.
Make the Call
Giving a deposition can be a relatively painless process, so long as you have taken the appropriate steps beforehand. The Kenton Koszdin Law Office can provide the counsel you’ll need to confidently give your side of the story and present an honest portrayal of the events that led to your injury. Call our office today at (800) 437-7734 to set up a free consultation and case evaluation.
