Deposition Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Deposition.

Deposition (noun)

A deposition is a method used during the discovery phase of a lawsuit where witness testimonies are taken under oath before the actual trial, outside a courtroom setting. This official statement is recorded by a court reporter and may be used later in court, particularly to reveal discrepancies in a witness's account or rekindle the memory of the witness about certain details. Depositions can be requested regarding parties involved in the lawsuit, including the plaintiff, defendant, or additional witnesses. Independent parties reluctant to participate may need a subpoena to compel them to testify.