How Can I Prepare for a Divorce Deposition?

 Posted on November 06, 2023 in Divorce

When a couple goes through a divorce, they may need to take part in a deposition. If the divorce happens through litigation, instead of through collaborative divorce or mediation, it is guaranteed that a deposition will be part of the process. A deposition is a way for the two sides, their legal representatives, and a court report to come together and document all the information about things like income, assets, and children’s needs, that will be important for deciding the divorce settlement. If you are considering divorce in the State of Illinois and are curious about what might happen in a deposition, an Arlington Heights, IL divorce lawyer can clear up any confusion and help start you on your path of advocating for your rights.

What Should I Expect in a Deposition?

Depositions can be very intimidating. You need to swear under oath to answer all questions truthfully. However, even if you have no intention of lying, you may not have obvious answers to everything that you are asked. An important part of preparing for a deposition includes having your lawyer prepare you for the questions you may be asked. 

During a divorce deposition, your spouse’s attorney will question you. You should behave and dress as if you are being interviewed for a job you want. It is in your best interest to look and sound your best, because the impressions you make on others during the deposition can have an important impact on whatever is decided later on.

Try to speak slowly and clearly. When people are nervous they tend to speak very quickly, and naturally, you might feel nervous during the deposition. But if you can focus on speaking slowly, this might help you calm yourself and your speed. On the other hand, you may end up having pauses in your speech. That is fine too, and even expected, for someone like you who is not used to being deposed.

Another thing you should do is practice answering any questions you may be asked. Some typical questions are always asked at the beginning of a deposition. These include things that should be fairly easy for you to answer, followed by some about your marriage, including:

• What is your birth date?

• What is your profession?

• When did you get married?

• How long did you date before your wedding?

• Do you share a bank account with your spouse?

• How much did you earn in the past year?

• Who is the primary caretaker of your child(ren)?

These questions should be simple for you to answer, but you need to make sure you answer carefully and clearly. Make sure you only answer what you are asked, without providing information you are not asked for. And if you do not know the answer to a question, you can simply answer “I do not know” or “I do not recall” but you should never lie or tell partial truths.

Contact an Arlington Heights, IL Divorce Attorney

If you are considering divorce but have questions about what you might expect in a deposition, an Arlington Heights, IL divorce lawyer can answer your questions and guide you through this process. Call A. Traub & Associates at 847-749-4182 to start yourself on the right path towards protecting your rights in a divorce.