Episode #89: Deposition Survival For Adjusters

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Ever felt your file work turn into a courtroom minefield? We sit down with a clinical neuropsychologist who coaches witnesses to break down why depositions are adversarial even when they sound friendly, and how adjusters can protect credibility without oversharing. From honey and vinegar to the Columbo “play dumb” tactic, we map the playbook plaintiffs use to trigger fight-or-flight—and the tools you need to stay calm, concise, and consistent.

We draw a sharp line between fact witnesses and corporate representatives, explaining why mixing roles creates contradictions that haunt future cases. You’ll learn when to split depositions into two sessions, how to “stay in your lane,” and why “I don’t know” or “I don’t recall” can be the most reasonable answers when used with discipline. We also cover the five-second answer rule and bullet-point responses that tell the truth without gifting extra ammunition.

Documentation matters. We explore balanced claim notes that are clear, timely, and reconstructable years later, with practical guidance on templates, quarterly spot checks, and preventing drift under workload pressure. On the psychology side, we show how systematic desensitization—rehearsed exposure to tough questioning—rewires your brain to resist defensiveness and guessing. Plus, you’ll get neurocognitive tips for sequencing information, setting expectations with policyholders, and reducing reactivity.

If you handle property, auto, liability, or workers’ comp claims and want to show up strong in the chair, this conversation is your roadmap. Subscribe, share with your team, and leave a review to help more adjusters find practical, courtroom-tested strategies. Got a deposition tip or horror story? Drop it in a review and keep the conversation going.

For more insights, you might consider a career in liability adjusting or if you're searching for reliable adjusting services, visit Auten Claims Management.

To explore more about Chantal Roberts and her contributions to the industry, visit CMR Consulting.

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