Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

What does a deposition entail?

1. A statement made under oath by a witness

2. A written summary of a case

3. A plea for a civil suit

4. A list of evidence

The correct answer is: A statement made under oath by a witness

A deposition is a legal process where a witness provides a statement under oath, typically recorded for later use in court or during the discovery phase of a case. This process allows attorneys to gather information about the facts of a case, understand the witness's testimony, and assess their credibility before the trial. The witness is sworn in, and their responses to questions are taken down by a court reporter, ensuring an accurate and official record of what was said. This mechanism aims to prepare both parties for trial by clarifying the issues at stake and allowing for the exploration of testimonies in advance. The other options provided do not accurately define a deposition. A written summary of a case, while it may be part of legal documentation, does not capture the essence of giving testimony under oath. Similarly, a plea for a civil suit is a formal request for relief and does not reflect the process of a deposition. Lastly, a list of evidence relates to the materials presented in court rather than the procedure of collecting sworn statements from witnesses. Understanding the nature of depositions is essential for anyone involved in legal processes, particularly in gathering evidence and preparing for court.