Monday, January 31, 2011

Representation of Deaf Client

Last week, I represented a very unusual client at deposition.  The client was deaf and he was questioned by means of a combination of connecting the court reporter’s transcript to a computer monitor and his lip reading.  Short of my physically putting my hand on his shoulder, there was nothing I could do to counsel him once a question had been “asked.”

Because of our “conversations” in preparing for the deposition, he understood the issues in his case, both as to how he had come to be the victim of an accident and his losses and presented himself well on his own behalf, i.e., straightforward and articulate.

The important thing in every case is presenting your cards to the best of your ability.