Preparing for a family law deposition can be intimidating, especially without an attorney. Knowing how to answer questions appropriately can make all the difference. Below are 15 examples of deposition questions across common topics, with ideal answers and brief explanations of why these responses work.
1. “What is your current income?”
Answer: “My current gross monthly income is approximately $5,000 from my full-time job as an office manager.”
Why: This answer is specific and provides the necessary information without extra detail.
2. “Who typically takes the children to school?”
Answer: “I take the children to school every morning unless I am out of town for work.”
Why: This answer is concise, factual, and avoids overexplaining.
3. “Do you have any joint accounts with your spouse?”
Answer: “Yes, we have a joint checking account at XYZ Bank.”
Why: It directly answers the question without offering unnecessary information about balances or account history unless specifically asked.
4. “How much time do you spend with your children each week?”
Answer: “On average, I spend about 30 hours a week with them, including evenings and weekends.”
Why: The answer provides an estimate without exaggeration or defensiveness.
5. “Have you ever been late on child support payments?”
Answer: “No, I have consistently paid on time according to the court’s order.”
Why: A clear and confident response directly addresses the question.
6. “Do you have any savings accounts?”
Answer: “Yes, I have one personal savings account at ABC Bank.”
Why: It answers the question without revealing unnecessary details, such as the balance, unless asked.
7. “Do you have concerns about your spouse’s parenting?”
Answer: “Yes, I have concerns about their consistency in following the agreed-upon schedule.”
Why: The answer is truthful but measured, avoiding emotional accusations.
8. “Who paid the household bills during the marriage?”
Answer: “We both contributed to the household bills, but I primarily handled the payments.”
Why: It provides factual information while acknowledging shared responsibility.
9. “Have you discussed this case with your children?”
Answer: “No, I have not discussed the specifics of the case with them.”
Why: This answer avoids presenting behavior that could be viewed negatively by the court.
10. “Have you ever used drugs or alcohol around your children?”
Answer: “No, I have not used drugs, and I do not consume alcohol around my children.”
Why: A clear denial ensures there is no room for misinterpretation.
11. “Why did the marriage end?”
Answer: “We had irreconcilable differences that we could not resolve.”
Why: This neutral response avoids blame and keeps the focus away from personal grievances.
12. “What extracurricular activities are your children involved in?”
Answer: “They are involved in soccer and piano lessons, which they attend weekly.”
Why: The answer is straightforward and provides factual details about the children’s activities.
13. “Do you own any property other than the marital home?”
Answer: “Yes, I own a rental property located in Pasadena, California.”
Why: It answers the question directly and provides only the necessary information.
14. “Did you handle the household finances during the marriage?”
Answer: “Yes, I managed most of the day-to-day financial responsibilities, including paying bills and budgeting.”
Why: The answer is factual and avoids unnecessary elaboration.
15. “Are you seeking full custody of the children?”
Answer: “Yes, I believe that full custody would be in the best interests of the children.”
Why: This is a clear statement of intent without disparaging the other parent.
Key Takeaways for Deposition Answers
- Be Honest: Always answer truthfully; lying under oath has serious consequences.
- Be Concise: Provide just enough information to answer the question without adding unnecessary details.
- Stay Calm: Avoid emotional or defensive reactions, even when the question feels personal or unfair.
- Stick to the Question: Only answer what’s asked—don’t volunteer additional information.
By practicing how to respond to potential questions and focusing on facts, you can navigate your family law deposition confidently and effectively.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized legal guidance on third-party insurance claims or related matters, consult with a qualified attorney familiar with the law in your jurisdiction.
