September 19, 2019
5 Tips for Teaching Deposition Skills to Young Lawyers
By: Colleen Jilio-Ryan | Posted in: Deposition
Teaching young lawyers how to perform quality depositions involves hands-on practice that allows them to test their skills. Mock depositions are a great way for them to learn using trial and error. It gives them an idea of what they need to do to ensure their depositions go smoothly.
Here are 5 tips on how to successfully teach deposition skills to young lawyers:
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Set Up a Realistic Practice Deposition
Set up a mock deposition that is as realistic as possible. This will give them a better approach to handling themselves during the various phases of the interview. It will allow them to discover ways to deal with obstacles. Mock depositions are a great way to assess your deposition skills.
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Create a Transcript
To get an accurate view of the mock deposition, hire a professional transcriptionist. They will be able to record an accurate representation of the testimony so the attorney can identify any areas for improvement. Transcripts also give you an idea of the different types of speech that are used.
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Go Over the Video
Go over the video and transcript carefully. Identify areas of improvement but also look for areas where the attorney did things correctly. Make a list of the things that need to be corrected and have them practice those areas.
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Evaluate Yourself
Perform an honest and in-depth self-evaluation and use constructive criticism. Wait a few days and go over the evaluation again. Take the time to consider the points that are listed. With each point, create possible solutions that can be used to improve their deposition skills.
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Share What You’ve Learned
Talk to others and share your experiences. This can provide you with a new perspective on how to handle the most common problems that occur during a deposition. In addition to the points you have discovered, others may be able to offer extra tips as well.
Teaching deposition skills to new attorneys works best when you can show them what the actual problems are. Mock depositions are a great way to focus on various aspects of the process. They will also give the attorneys an insight into how to improve their deposition skills and other skills they will need during their career.
Colleen Jilio-Ryan is the Owner of Jilio-Ryan, a Tustin based premiere law consulting firm. The firm along with its certified court reporters is dedicated to providing the highest quality deposition and litigation services to attorneys, insurance companies, and corporations. With her sincere efforts, Colleen is committed to meeting the highest standards of the legal industry, and is an industry leader when it comes to on-time court reporting and deposition scheduling.