Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Depose: When people are involved in a lawsuit, they may be asked to answer questions under oath. This is called a deposition. The person being questioned is called a deponent. There are rules that govern how depositions are conducted, either by asking questions out loud or in writing. However, most people prefer to answer written questions called interrogatories because they are easier to understand and provide more detailed answers.
Definition: Depose refers to the process of questioning a witness or party to a lawsuit under oath during a deposition. This occurs during the pre-trial discovery process and is governed by rules such as Rule 30 and Rule 31 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
Example: In a lawsuit, the plaintiff's attorney may depose a witness to gather information about the case. The witness will be asked questions under oath and their answers will be recorded for later use in court.
Explanation: Deposing a witness allows attorneys to gather information and evidence before a trial. By questioning a witness under oath, they can ensure that the witness is telling the truth and gather important details about the case. This information can be used to build a stronger case or to prepare for cross-examination during the trial.