Legal Definitions - depone

Depone (verb)

In Scots law, to depone means to give evidence or testimony, typically under oath or affirmation, in a legal proceeding. It is the act of formally stating facts or observations to a court, tribunal, or other authorized body.

• Example 1: During a high-profile fraud trial in Edinburgh, the lead investigator was called to the stand to depone regarding the financial irregularities uncovered during their investigation. They presented their findings and answered questions from both the prosecution and defense lawyers.

  Explanation: This illustrates the investigator formally giving their testimony and evidence in a Scottish court, which is the act of deponing.

• Example 2: A claimant in a personal injury case in Glasgow was asked to depone by providing a sworn affidavit detailing the circumstances of their accident and the extent of their injuries. This written statement would then be submitted as evidence to the court.

  Explanation: Here, deponing refers to the act of providing a formal, sworn written statement that serves as testimony in a legal matter within the Scottish legal system.

• Example 3: When a public inquiry was launched in Scotland to investigate a significant environmental incident, several local residents were invited to depone before the inquiry panel. They shared their personal experiences and observations about the incident's impact on their community.

  Explanation: In this context, the residents are formally giving their accounts and evidence to an official body (the inquiry panel) in Scotland, which is a form of deponing.