Deponent Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Deponent, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Deponent?

History and Meaning of Deponent

A deponent is an individual who provides sworn testimony under oath in a deposition. A deposition is a legal procedure that involves giving witness testimony outside of court, which is recorded and transcribed for use in court proceedings. The term “deponent” comes from the Latin word “deponere,” meaning “to testify” or “to depose.”

In legal terms, a deponent can be anyone with knowledge or information relevant to a legal case, and who can provide sworn testimony about those facts during a deposition. Depositions are often used in civil lawsuits as a way to gather evidence and information prior to a trial.

Examples of Deponent

1. The deponent stated that they had witnessed the car accident and saw the defendant run a red light.
2. During the deposition, the deponent was asked about their relationship with the defendant and whether they had any financial interest in the outcome of the case.
3. The deponent was asked to provide details about their conversation with the plaintiff on the day of the incident.

Legal Terms Similar to Deponent

1. Witness - A person who has relevant information or knowledge regarding a legal case and provides testimony under oath in court.
2. Affiant - An individual who signs and swears to the truth of a written statement, such as an affidavit.
3. Interrogator - Also known as the examiner or questioner, the person who asks questions of a deponent during a deposition.