Who is referred to as a deponent?

A deponent is identified as a witness who testifies under oath during a deposition, which is a pre-trial procedure where witnesses provide sworn out-of-court testimony. This process is crucial for gathering information and evidence pertinent to the case, and the deponent's statements are recorded for later use in litigation. The testimony given by the deponent can be critical, as it may influence the direction of the case and the arguments presented by both parties.

During a deposition, the deponent's answers can be challenged and explored through cross-examination, allowing attorneys to assess their credibility and the strength of their testimony. Understanding the role of a deponent is essential for anyone involved in legal proceedings, as it highlights the importance of sworn testimony in the discovery process.