Depositions preserve fresh memories

WHILE I do not support Justice Minister Michael McDowell’s policies on many issues, I agree with his recommendation that the legal system in Ireland adopt a “well-worked out system of depositions”.

For almost 20 years I have worked as a paralegal in defence law firms in Seattle, Washington. Depositions are an almost daily occurrence, and are conducted as routine discovery in every case.

Depositions are scheduled for many reasons — the plaintiff is always deposed, which initially sets out what the contentions and allegations are. Also, doctors and other experts are routinely deposed to determine the nature and extent of injuries, cause of injuries, need for future medical care, etc.