Which discovery tool involves oral questions asked during testimony, typically in person under oath?

Which discovery tool involves oral questions asked during testimony, typically in person under oath?

• A. Interrogatories
• B. Depositions
• C. Requests for Production
• D. Subpoenas

Answer: (B)

Depositions are the discovery tool that features oral questions asked during testimony, typically in person and under oath. In a deposition, attorneys from both sides question the witness directly, and a court reporter (often with video) records every answer. The under-oath requirement means the witness is legally bound to tell the truth, just as they would in court, which makes the testimony more reliable for later use at trial or for impeachment if inconsistencies appear. This differs from written questions, where the other side answers in writing without live questioning. It also differs from requests for production, which seek documents rather than testimony. A subpoena can compel someone to appear and testify or produce documents, but the substantive oral examination happens during a deposition, not merely by issuing a subpoena.

Depositions are the discovery tool that features oral questions asked during testimony, typically in person and under oath. In a deposition, attorneys from both sides question the witness directly, and a court reporter (often with video) records every answer. The under-oath requirement means the witness is legally bound to tell the truth, just as they would in court, which makes the testimony more reliable for later use at trial or for impeachment if inconsistencies appear.

This differs from written questions, where the other side answers in writing without live questioning. It also differs from requests for production, which seek documents rather than testimony. A subpoena can compel someone to appear and testify or produce documents, but the substantive oral examination happens during a deposition, not merely by issuing a subpoena.