Which deposition method uses written questions that the witness answers under oath?

• A. Deposition by Written Questions
• B. Interrogatories
• C. Affidavit
• D. Sanctions

Answer: (A)

Deposition by Written Questions is the process where questions are prepared in writing and served to the witness, who then provides written answers under oath. This mirrors taking testimony through written prompts rather than a live, oral interrogation. The witness’s sworn responses are typically transcribed just as in an oral deposition, but the questioning occurs in writing.

This differs from an oral deposition, where questions are asked aloud and answered verbally under oath during a live session with counsel and a court reporter. Interrogatories are written questions directed to a party (not a witness) with sworn written answers, usually served through the party’s attorney. An affidavit is a sworn written statement by a single person about facts relevant to the case, not a deposition session. Sanctions are penalties for noncompliance, not a method of taking testimony.

So the option that matches “written questions answered under oath by the witness” is Deposition by Written Questions.