Depositions can be recorded verbatim via shorthand, stenotype, stenomask, or electronic recording equipment. This is key to what happens after a deposition. Here’s what you could expect: The Court Reporter Will Prepare the Transcript A court reporter is typically present during depositions to record the proceedings. After a deposition concludes, the court reporter will prepare a transcript accessible by both parties’ legal representatives for review. Preparing a legible transcript of the testimonies delivered during a deposition could take a few weeks. Your Lawyer Reviews the Transcript Your lawyer will carefully examine the transcript to identify any errors or misinformation. They may determine that another witness must be heard and work to schedule another deposition to gather additional testimony. You and Your Lawyer Discuss the Deposition Itself Upon reviewing the transcript, your lawyer will tell you how the deposition will impact your case. This will be an honest assessment, so you should prepare for both good and bad news. You May Undergo an Independent Medical Examination The other side may request an independent medical examination of your injuries after a deposition. The insurance provider may send you to a doctor who they hire to evaluate your condition and offer opinions about whether you were injured in the accident. Unfortunately, the doctor may try to minimize your injuries or claim the cause of your injuries was not the car accident. Your lawyer will prepare you for a medical examination. You should not give the doctor excess information, and your own doctor should write a report documenting your injuries. The Other Party May Suggest a Summary Judgment The defense can file a motion to accelerate a judgment in your case. Instead of a trial in which your lawyer argues your case in front of a jury, the judge will review the facts and issue a decision. If this occurs, your lawyer will argue why your case should go to a full trial. You Appear at Trial Should your case go to trial, you will have to appear in court as your lawyer presents your case and any evidence that supports your claim. A trial can take weeks, even months, to unfold. A jury will hear the evidence from both sides and issue a verdict. If the jury sides with you, you will receive a court award to cover your damages.