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Cost Guide
Deposition Costs | Attorney Raffi Naljian
Depositions are often the most expensive part of litigation, but they're crucial for building strong cases. Attorney Raffi Naljian explains what depositions cost, when they're necessary, and how these expenses fit into your case. Understanding deposition costs helps you evaluate litigation decisions.
Questions about deposition costs?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Depositions can make or break a case, but they add significant costs. Raffi Naljian strategically determines which depositions are essential and helps you understand how these costs affect your case economics. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
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How to organize the evidence path
Bring dates, provider names, photos, reports, wage records, insurance letters, and any deadline notices. Those items usually matter more than a long summary written from memory.
What to Do Next
- 1Ask which depositions your case may require
- 2Understand the purpose of each deposition
- 3Get estimates for deposition costs
- 4Ask how deposition costs are handled
- 5Understand that both sides take depositions
- 6Prepare for your own deposition
- 7Discuss cost-benefit of deposing experts
Evidence Checklist
- List of potential deponents
- Court reporter cost estimates
- Video deposition cost estimates
- Expert deposition costs
- Transcript costs
- Travel costs if applicable
Depositions are an investment in your case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating deposition costs
- Not asking about video vs. stenographic
- Overlooking expert deposition costs
- Not preparing for your own deposition
- Forgetting transcript costs
- Not understanding strategic value
How the Process Typically Works
1
Deposition Planning
Identify necessary depositions
2
Scheduling
Coordinate with all parties
3
Preparation
Prepare questions and witnesses
4
Taking Depositions
Conduct examination under oath
5
Transcripts
Order and review transcripts
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Strong depositions strengthen case value
- •Costs are typically advanced by attorney
- •Reimbursed from recovery
- •Investment in building strongest case
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a deposition?
A deposition is sworn testimony taken outside of court. Witnesses answer questions from attorneys while a court reporter transcribes. Video recording is increasingly common.
How much do depositions cost?
Court reporters charge $300-$500+ per hour. A typical deposition might cost $500-$2,000+ for reporting and transcripts. Expert depositions can cost significantly more.
Why are depositions so important?
Depositions lock in testimony, reveal weaknesses in the opponent's case, help evaluate settlement value, and provide material for trial. They often lead to settlement.
Will I have to give a deposition?
Probably. The defendant typically deposes the plaintiff to assess your credibility, understand your injuries, and find weaknesses. Preparation with your attorney is essential.
What about expert witness depositions?
Deposing the defendant's experts can be expensive (expert's hourly rate plus reporter costs) but may reveal weaknesses in their opinions.
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Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.