Ohio Notary Practice Exam

What defines a deposition?

1. A written statement of facts

2. An audio recording of testimony

3. Spoken testimony transcribed into written form

4. A type of signed acknowledgment

The correct answer is: Spoken testimony transcribed into written form

A deposition is defined as spoken testimony that is taken under oath and is subsequently transcribed into written form. This process allows for an individual's statements and responses to questions to be recorded, creating a formal account of their testimony. Depositions are commonly used in legal proceedings as a means to gather evidence, allowing attorneys to assess witness credibility and prepare for trial. The other choices do not accurately describe a deposition. A written statement of facts typically refers to an affidavit or a sworn written declaration, which does not involve the interactive questioning process of a deposition. An audio recording of testimony, while captured during a deposition, does not encompass the entire process since a deposition specifically results in a written transcript. Lastly, a signed acknowledgment pertains to a different legal concept often related to the verification of documents, not to the procedure of gathering and recording witness testimony.