A deposition is defined as:

A deposition is primarily characterized as the taking of testimony outside of court. This definition is essential because depositions are an integral part of the discovery process in litigation, where parties gather information prior to trial. During a deposition, a witness is sworn in, and their testimony is recorded. This testimony can then be used to prepare for trial or may even be presented as evidence if the witness is unable to attend the trial.

Understanding this distinction is important for those involved in legal proceedings, as depositions help clarify the positions of both parties and can significantly influence the course of a case. While testimony in an action might occur in various settings, the key aspect of a deposition is that it takes place outside the judicial setting, usually in an attorney's office or similar venue. This separation from court allows for a different procedural approach, allowing legal teams to gather information more flexibly.