If you're involved in any type of legal dispute, you may be forced to give a deposition at some point. This is when you will be required to meet with the opposing party's attorney and discuss the case fully. This is a critical part of your case and could either strengthen it or weaken. It's important to the outcome of your legal dispute to avoid certain mistakes when providing a deposition.

Mistake #1: Being too chatty

You may be overly nervous when you meet with the opposing attorney for the first time. This could cause you to be too talkative, and this is a frequent mistake that is made by people who are being disposed.

Remember the person who is asking you questions is not on your side. This means that any and everything that you say could be used against you in court. There will be a court reporter who will transcribe the entire meeting, so there will be a record of it.

Mistake #2: Being rude

Regardless of how emotional you feel about the dispute, it's important to be polite to the other attorney at all times. Using curse words or being impolite can certainly provide the wrong impression of you, and it's important to the outcome of your case to show your best side.

Mistake #3:  Being untruthful

The worst thing you can do when giving a deposition is telling a lie. Stick to the facts throughout the course of the deposition because if you don't, any untruths are likely to be found out at a later date, and this could have a negative impact on your case.

Mistake #4: Being unprepared

The key to presenting a successful deposition may rest in preparing for it with your attorney beforehand.  Be sure to schedule some time with your lawyer and ask some of the questions listed below:

1. What is the normal length of the deposition?
2. Is it possible to avoid answering some of the questions that are asked?
3. Can you take breaks during this meeting?
4. Is it okay to bring a person with you for support?

A deposition can literally make or break your case.  Be sure to know what you should and shouldn't do before you attend this all important part of the discovery stage of civil litigation. Be sure to consult with a personal injury attorney, such as http://gomezmaylaw.com/, who can legally guide you through this process.