Texas Court Reporter Practice Exam

Who is responsible for the payment of a deposition?

1. the witness

2. the judge

3. the attorney who schedules the deposition

4. the court clerk

The correct answer is: the attorney who schedules the deposition

The attorney who schedules the deposition is responsible for the payment of the deposition. This role aligns with the typical responsibilities of an attorney, who initiates the process by scheduling the deposition and coordinating with the court reporter and witness. In legal practice, it is customary for the party that requests the deposition to cover the costs associated with it, including the fees of the court reporter, who records the testimony. While witnesses are generally compensated for their time and travel, it is the attorney's duty to ensure that these payments, as part of the overall deposition expenses, are managed and settled. Additionally, neither the judge nor the court clerk has financial responsibility for depositions; judges oversee court proceedings, and clerks manage court records and filings but do not incur costs related to depositions requested by attorneys.