Based on the logic that trial is argument, deposition is trial, and deposition is argument, there is no such thing as a "discovery" deposition. ALL depositions are trial depositions. In EVERY adverse deposition, cross-examiner's central goal is to craft credibility arguments that settle cases or win trials. The focus of this seminar is a uniquely valuable -and entertaining- analysis of the most-difficult-to-master credibility arguments: the 12 "reasonables," which are vital to the execution of great adverse depositions or a great trial cross-examinations.

 

8:00 a.m.

Registration

 

8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

- Introduction re error, lie, and deception - Primer re deposition logic and seminar lingo

- Primer re "The Magnificent Seven": the crucial techniques

- 25 attacking and supporting credibility arguments

- Overview to the "Reasonables"

 

10:00 - 10:10 a.m.  Break

 

10:10 - 11:20 p.m.

- Witness's action not reasonably consistent with knowledge⁄motivation

- Witness unreasonably deviated from a practice

- Witness unreasonably deviated from a precedent or subsequent

- Witness not reasonably knowledgeable

 

11:20 - 11:30 p.m.  Break

 

11:30 - 12:30 p.m.

- Witness not reasonably considering

- Witness not reasonably reasoning

- Witness not reasonably motivated

- Witness not reasonably emotional

 

12:30 - 1:30 p.m.  Lunch

 

1:30 - 2:50 p.m.

- Witness not reasonably remembering

- Witness's memory unreasonably good

 

2:50 - 3:00 p.m.  Break

 

3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

- Witness unreasonably question-dodged

- Witness's characterization unreasonably overstated⁄understated

- Witness's values failed the "good citizenship" test

 

4:30 pm.  Adjourn  

 

Robert Musante is back!  See what past attendees had to say about Mr. Musante's last Colorado presentation:

 

This is an excellent class and should be mandatory before ever taking a depo. Musante is perfect: very energetic and engaging. Will improve my depos 100%. - Kerri Anderson, 1-yr atty, 10 adverse depos, Denver

 

This is the best one-day deposition seminar I have attended. Very good practical content supported by good examples. Musante is superior. - Bill Keating, 32- yr atty, 750+ adverse depos, Denver

 

Outstanding. By far the best seminar re depositions I have ever attended ... every bit as good and informative as the Irving Younger seminar I attended some 20+ years ago. - Steve Polidori, 25- yr atty, 100s of adverse depos. Denver

 

Without question, this seminar was the best I've attended. Outstanding practical content; outstanding instructor. I have been a slave to the "stupid orthodoxy" ... up to now. I will never again save impeachment for trial. - Fred Haines, 19- yr atty, 100+ depos, Denver

 

Best CLE I have taken on practice tips. Musante's different approach to depositions is energizing and very helpful. Entertaining, engaging and energizing...great class! - Patricia Dean, 11-yr atty, 50+ depos, Denver

 

By far the best CLE program I've attended. In fact, the best lecture on cross-examination and litigation I've attended. Practical content very high. The strategies and advice are extremely practical. Great presentation and extremely entertaining. - Andres R. Guevara, 5-yr atty, 10 depos, Denver