July 29, 2026
If you’re pursuing an injury lawsuit—whether due to asbestos exposure, toxic chemicals, a defective medical device, or another harmful product—you will likely go through a legal step called a deposition. While the term might sound intimidating, especially if you’ve never been involved in a legal case, understanding what a deposition is and how to prepare for it can ease your anxiety.
At Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel, we know that facing a lawsuit is often one of the most challenging experiences of a person’s life. Our attorneys are here to support you every step of the way, including preparing for and attending your deposition. This guide will help you understand the deposition process and what to expect.
A deposition is a formal question-and-answer session conducted under oath, usually as part of the discovery phase of a lawsuit. It typically takes place in a lawyer’s office—not a courtroom—and is attended by a court reporter who creates a transcript of everything said.
As the plaintiff (the person filing the lawsuit), you’ll answer questions from the defense attorney (the lawyer representing the company or party you’re suing). Your own attorney will be right there with you to protect your rights, raise objections and support you throughout the process. These sessions are often recorded on both audio and video.
Depositions play a critical role in building your case. They allow both sides to:
The following people are usually present:
Although the setting is informal compared to a courtroom, the testimony you give carries legal weight and must be taken seriously.
Many of our clients suffer from serious illnesses, such as silicosis or mesothelioma, a terminal cancer caused by asbestos exposure. In such cases, a deposition may need to happen quickly—and in a location that accommodates the client’s health.
Rather than taking place in a law office, mesothelioma depositions may be conducted in the client’s home, hospital room, or hospice care facility. Our legal team has extensive experience managing these sensitive situations, and our attorneys work closely with families and healthcare providers to ensure the process is as comfortable and respectful as possible.
We understand the urgency in these cases. Depositions are often scheduled early to preserve critical testimony while the client is still able to participate. Your voice matters, and we’re committed to helping you be heard, even under difficult circumstances.
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your deposition. Good preparation can ease your mind and help you feel ready. Here’s what to keep in mind:
About Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel
Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel is a national plaintiffs’ law firm devoted to helping families in personal injury and wrongful death cases involving asbestos and mesothelioma, silicosis, benzene exposure, dangerous pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and birth defects caused by pesticides, toxic chemicals, opioid use, and semiconductor chip manufacturing. The law firm also represents plaintiffs in qui tam whistleblower matters and cases that uncover false claims submitted to the government. Based in Dallas, Texas, with offices in Los Angeles, California, and Moline, Illinois, Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has represented families from all fifty states and many foreign countries, as well as foreign governments.
Our Results
Historic settlement for over 1,300 survivors of clergy and adult abuse within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment for justice.
A Philadelphia jury awarded a record verdict against ExxonMobil for failing to warn about cancer risks due to benzene in its petroleum products.
Private equity firm and co-defendants agree to pay $25M in Medicaid fraud case alleging mental health services provided by unqualified providers.
That’s the first question everyone asks. The truth is it’s impossible to know. But we can tell you this. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has what it takes to fight against big corporate interests and win.
