08/24/2026
For any Law Enforcement officers that may follow me, I have put together a quick checklist for testimony or depositions.
As an Expert Witness, I review depositions on almost every case I’m involved in.. About 90% of the time or more, the officer is embarrassed or is made to look incompetent..
Don’t let that happen to you!
I hope you find this helpful!
Be safe and Stay Dangerous!
DEPOSITION CHECKLIST FOR POLICE OFFICERS
Before you walk into a deposition, remember this: opposing counsel is not there to help you explain yourself. Every answer becomes sworn testimony and may be used in court.
✅ BEFORE THE DEPOSITION
☐ Meet with the attorney representing you or your agency
☐ Review your reports, supplements, photographs, video, audio, and relevant policies
☐ Refresh your memory—but do not memorize answers
☐ Identify any mistakes or inconsistencies before questioning begins
☐ Understand the allegations and your role in the case
☐ Get a good night’s sleep and arrive early
☐ Dress professionally and silence your phone
✅ DURING THE DEPOSITION
☐ Listen to the entire question
☐ Pause before answering
☐ ANSWER ONLY THE QUESTION ASKED
☐ Tell the truth—never guess or speculate
☐ If you do not know, say, “I don’t know”
☐ If you do not remember, say, “I don’t recall”
☐ Ask for clarification if the question is confusing
☐ Do not exaggerate, argue, joke, or become defensive
☐ Avoid absolute words like “ALWAYS” and “NEVER” unless they are completely accurate
☐ Allow your attorney time to object before answering
☐ Correct inaccurate assumptions built into a question
☐ Ask to see the document if questioned about its exact wording
☐ Remember that facial expressions, attitude, and body language matter
☐ Request a break if needed—but answer any pending question first
✅ BEFORE YOU LEAVE
☐ Correct any answer you believe was inaccurate or incomplete
☐ Ask about reviewing the transcript for errors
☐ Do not discuss your testimony casually after the deposition
The goal is not to “win” the deposition. The goal is to provide truthful, accurate, professional testimony without volunteering unnecessary information.
Prepare carefully. Listen closely. Answer precisely. THEN STOP TALKING.
— Pettigrew Law Enforcement Consulting