Realized I was killing my own deposition after a mediator called me out

I spent three years doing depositions where I asked leading questions and cut witnesses off constantly. Thought I was being aggressive and effective. Then a mediator in Seattle pulled me aside after a failed settlement conference and said I was making everyone hate me and my client look scared. He pointed out that opposing counsel was just letting me talk while my key witness contradicted herself because I was too busy posturing to let her answer. That was what tipped me off. Now I sit back and let them ramble until they hurt themselves. It saved a $2 million contract dispute from going to trial. Has anyone else had a rude awakening about their own courtroom style?

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1 Comment

bailey.sam5d ago

Yeah that's exactly it, once you shut up they dig their own hole every time.