What is a deposition?

A deposition is indeed testimony provided under oath outside of the courtroom. It occurs during the discovery phase of legal proceedings, where witnesses, including parties involved in a lawsuit, are questioned by attorneys. The purpose of a deposition is to gather information and evidence that can be used in court, as well as to preserve the witness's testimony for future reference. The witness's responses are recorded and may be utilized to assess the strength of the case or to prepare for trial.

This process allows both parties in a legal dispute to understand the evidence, the arguments of the opposing side, and the witness's potential testimony. It is an essential part of the pre-trial process and helps ensure transparency and fairness in the judicial system. The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of a deposition, focusing instead on different aspects of legal procedures, such as formal documents or trial settings.