Before sworn testimony
Received an Injury Deposition Notice?
30-second answer
Send the whole notice to your lawyer promptly. Ask about the date, requested records, and any response deadline. Flag language or access needs early. Prepare to tell the truth, not a memorized story. If you have no lawyer, seek legal help rather than ignoring the notice.
Legal information from the Law Office of Arta Wildeboer · Updated
Do this now
- 1Save the notice, attachments, delivery email or envelope, and any court orders.
- 2Send the full packet to your lawyer. Ask who will check deadlines and respond to record requests.
- 3Raise language, hearing, mobility, or scheduling needs. Get any changes confirmed in writing.
- 4Review the true timeline with your lawyer. Include earlier injuries, uncertain details, and records that need context.
- 5Confirm the place or remote setup. Ask how you will receive and review the transcript afterward.
Avoid this
- Do not assume you can skip the deposition because no separate subpoena arrived.
- Do not delete records, hide prior injuries, guess, or accept answers from someone else during testimony.
- Do not assume refusing to sign the transcript removes your testimony.
Save these
- Full notice and delivery information
- Record requests, responses, and court orders
- Written schedule and access arrangements
- Original records reviewed with your lawyer
- Transcript-availability notice and correction records
Common questions
Is this an insurance interview?
A deposition is sworn testimony in a case. It is different from an informal adjuster call or a defense medical exam. This guide covers California state-court civil cases.
What if I do not understand a question?
Ask for it to be repeated or explained. Say if you cannot hear or read an exhibit. Do not guess. Use “I do not remember” only when true.
Can I take part from home?
Ask your lawyer to confirm the format and arrangements. A remote link does not excuse missing notice requirements or court orders. Do not change the location yourself.
What if I need an interpreter or a break?
Tell your lawyer early. Confirm who will arrange language help and how to ask for breaks. Do not assume a relative may interpret.
When do I review the transcript?
Ask your lawyer to track the actual deadline. The usual period runs from notice that it is available, not the deposition date. Agreements or court orders can change the process.
Want more detail?
Read the full explanation
Preparing for a California Injury DepositionOfficial resources
- California Courts: What is a deposition? (opens in a new window)
- California Code of Civil Procedure 2025.220: Notice contents (opens in a new window)
- California Code of Civil Procedure 2025.280: Notice and subpoena (opens in a new window)
- California Rule of Court 3.1010: Remote depositions (opens in a new window)
- California Code of Civil Procedure 2025.520: Transcript review (opens in a new window)
Questions about your situation?
Talk with Arta Wildeboer
A short guide cannot account for every fact. A free consultation can help you understand the next step without pressure.