Civil Procedure Multistate Bar Practice Exam

For how long can a deposition last without court order or party stipulation?

1. 4 hours

2. 6 hours

3. 7 hours

4. 8 hours

The correct answer is: 7 hours

The correct duration for which a deposition can last without a court order or party stipulation is typically set at 7 hours. This limit is intended to balance the need for thorough discovery with the practical considerations of both the deponent and the attorneys involved. Deposition lengths are generally governed by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically Rule 30, which outlines that unless otherwise agreed by the parties or ordered by the court, a deposition of a natural person is limited to one day's length of 7 hours. This 7-hour limit is designed to ensure that the deposition process is manageable and to prevent undue burden on the witness, while still allowing attorneys sufficient time to cover necessary topics. Understanding this limit is essential for practicing attorneys as it helps them effectively plan their deposition strategy and manage their time during the discovery phase of litigation.