Dressing and Acting Appropriately
Since you are trying to make a favorable impression on the defense attorney, it is important to dress neatly and to treat all persons in the deposition room with courtesy and respect. There is nothing to gain by arguing with or insulting the defense attorney. After the deposition, this attorney will report his or her impressions of you to the insurance company. If this attorney thinks that your attitude will rub the jurors the wrong way, the insurance company will be inclined to make a relatively low settlement offer.
It is critical at every stage of the litigation in which you are evaluated in person by the insurance company, its attorney, an arbitration panel, a judge, and/or a jury, that you dress appropriately and conservatively. Failing to do so shows a lack of respect for the court. The judge, jury, or arbitration panel may think that you do not take the matter seriously enough if you do not present a business-like appearance. If you appear at your deposition improperly clad, the defense lawyer will report this to the insurance company and the settlement value of your case will suffer.
The most important aspect of the discovery deposition is you and the appearance you make. If you give the appearance of fairness, honesty, and earnestness, and if you keep in mind these suggestions, you will have taken a great stride toward the successful settlement of the litigation.
