Episode 165: Stopping the "You Can Answer" Gatekeeping

A must-listen episode with actionable guidance for litigators and trial teams who want to keep depositions moving and the record clean. We break down the “you can answer” interjection: why it is usually unnecessary, how it inserts defending counsel into your Q-and-A, and how repetition disrupts tempo and shifts the witness from answering questions to seeking permission. You will get a ready-to-use preliminary instruction that tells the witness to answer after objections unless counsel clearly instructs “don’t answer” or the witness needs a rephrase. We also cover when to address opposing counsel on the record and how to frame the issue as coaching and delay. If the conduct escalates, we explain how Rule 30(d)(3)(A) supports suspending the deposition and seeking a protective order.

SHOW NOTES:

Sample preliminary instruction to minimize "You can answer" gatekeeping"

During this deposition, the lawyers may make objections from time to time. For example, you may hear one of the lawyers say objection, or object to the form. These objections are mainly for the court reporter and, if necessary, for the judge later. They’re not signals to you to stop or to wait for permission. The only time you may hesitate is if the objection you’ve heard is “don’t answer that question.” Otherwise, after objection, or if theres no objection, go ahead and answer the question that was asked, after you heard the objection. You should not turn to your lawyer after each question, or wait for your lawyer to say you can answer after each question. Just listen to the question, and if you understand it, answer it in your own words. The only time you should stop answering as if your lawyers objection is along the lines of don’t answer that question, or if you yourself don’t understand the question and need me to rephrase it. Otherwise, you should go ahead and answer the question.