Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

If a witness does not sign a deposition within 30 days, what action does the court reporter take?

1. Void the deposition

2. Sign it

3. Reissue the deposition

4. Notify the court

The correct answer is: Sign it

When a witness does not sign a deposition within the specified 30-day period, the correct action for the court reporter is to sign the deposition on behalf of the witness. This process is typically in place to ensure that the record of the deposition can still be considered valid and can be admitted into evidence, even if the witness is unable or unwilling to sign it themselves. This procedure allows the court to maintain the integrity of the deposition process and ensure that the information recorded is not lost due to a delay or failure to acquire the witness's signature. It reflects an understanding of practical challenges that may arise in legal proceedings and establishes a method of preserving the documentation involved. Other options, such as voiding or reissuing the deposition, would hinder the legal process and potentially complicate matters further. Notifying the court may be necessary in some circumstances, but it is not the primary responsibility of the court reporter regarding the deposition signature issue.