Posted by Post authored by Octavio Duran
The deposition is one of the most important discovery tools for attorneys to prosecute or defend their case. On February 19, Octavio Duran, Principal and Owner of Duran Law Offices, will provide an introduction, techniques and overview of the relevant Illinois rules and statutes for handling a civil deposition in Illinois. Below, preview 3 tips to consider before taking a deposition:
1.) You should absolutely be aware of the rules and laws that govern how you will be conducting the depositions. Depositions are governed by the Rules of Civil Procedure, the Illinois Supreme Court Rules and any local applicable rules and/or laws. For instance, you may want to know that depositions are limited to just 3 hours.
2.) Preparation is key. You do not want to go into this deposition not knowing what types of questions you will ask, and what sort of answers you anticipate getting from the deponent. You should also practice asking your questions so that you feel comfortable doing so. Presence and confidence matter plenty during the discovery deposition.
3.) Make sure you get guidance from a mentor. You’ll need to know how to use exhibits, how to mark exhibits, and what sort of objections/questions you can make during the process. The CBA has a mentor/mentee program that provides a platform for young lawyers to gain this type of assistance.
Interested in learning more? Join Octavio on February 19 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the CBA Building for “Intro to Civil Depositions.” A networking reception immediately follows the seminar. The seminar will also be live Webcast. 1 IL PR-MCLE credit, subject to approval. Law students and CLE-Advantage members are free, $20 member, $40 nonmember. Register at http://www.chicagobar.org/cle or call 312-554-2056.
About the Author:
Octavio is a Partner at the law firm of Hart David Carson LLP. He dedicates his practice to representing individuals and families in all areas of personal injury including automobile collisions, construction negligence, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and premises liability. Octavio has had much success in his young career. He has acquired millions of dollars for his clients and has been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers from 2013-Present. Octavio is an active member in the legal community. He formerly served as the Parliamentarian for the Alumni Association Board for Michigan State University College of Law and is currently the First Vice Chair for the Chicago Bar Association Young Lawyers Section. Through both organizations, Octavio has launched several fundraising functions that will benefit law school students and the legal community. He formerly served as the chair of the Tort Litigation Committee for the CBA and currently serves as the social chair for the YLS. When he is not spending his time volunteering for political candidates, he spends his time running and biking. He recently placed in the top 1% of all runners in Race Judicata, a race that raises funds for the Chicago Volunteer Legal Services.