A deposition is the testimony of a witness taken down in writing, or in stenographic notes and afterwards reduced to typewriting, under oath or affirmation, before a commissioner, judge, master in chancery, notary public, clerk of a court, or other person duly authorized by law, in answer to interrogatories either oral or written.

Statutory provisions in the various states prescribe the particular circumstances and conditions under which depositions may be taken, and the mode of procedure. These provisions must be strictly complied with; otherwise, the deposition will be suppressed.