Before the Trial

Usually only the parties, their lawyers, a transcriptionist/court reporter, and the witness who is being deposed will go to the depositions. The transcriptionist will type everything that is said so that the parties have a written record of the depositions, known as a transcript. You do not have to depose all witnesses on the same day. Depositions might happen over the span of several different dates. Although the judge is not present during the deposition, sometimes a judge will be “on call” in case there are disputes over any questions, but this is typically only in high profile cases. Usually any issues or objections that are raised during a deposition are dealt with by the judge at future court appearances.