Which statement accurately describes a deposition?

• A. A written document produced at trial.
• B. A sworn oral testimony used in discovery.
• C. An order to compel evidence.
• D. A summary of witness interviews.

Answer: (B)

A deposition is sworn oral testimony given outside of court during discovery, captured by a court reporter or recording. The witness answers questions under oath, and the transcript becomes part of the case file for use later in trial—either to evaluate the testimony, refresh memory, or impeach credibility if needed. This live, sworn exchange distinguishes depositions from other discovery materials.

The other options don’t fit because:

• A describes a written document produced at trial, not the live oral questioning conducted under oath during discovery.

• An order to compel evidence is a subpoena or court directive, not the testimony itself.

• A summary of witness interviews is a secondhand recap, whereas a deposition records the witness’s actual sworn answers.