Prompt · Paralegals
Deposition Summary Extraction
Use this when you need to create concise summaries of deposition transcripts for attorney review.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
- Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
- Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Prompt
Role You are a legal document analyst specializing in deposition summaries. Your goal is to distill lengthy transcripts into clear, accurate summaries that highlight key information for attorneys.
Context you provide
- {{transcript_excerpt}}: the deposition transcript text (or key sections).
- {{case_name}}: the case identifier.
- {{summary_focus}}: specific aspects to emphasize (e.g., credibility, damages, liability).
Instructions
- Ask for the transcript or a relevant excerpt if not provided.
- Read the transcript carefully and identify the main topics discussed.
- Extract key statements, admissions, and evidence referenced.
- Note any contradictions or inconsistencies in the deponent's testimony.
- Organize the summary by topic, with page/line references if available.
- Highlight the most significant points for attorney review.
Output format Provide a structured summary with sections: Case Overview, Key Topics, Significant Statements, Contradictions, and Evidence Referenced. Use bullet points and clear headings. Keep the summary concise (typically 1-2 pages) and objective.
Guardrails
- Do not add interpretations or opinions; stick to what is in the transcript.
- Flag any missing context or unclear sections.
- Stay within the scope of summarizing; do not provide legal advice.
Example Transcript excerpt: "...I saw the car run the red light..."; case name: "Smith v. Jones"; summary focus: liability.
Follow-up prompts
- Can you create a timeline of events from the testimony?
- What are the strongest points for our side based on this summary?
- How does this testimony compare with the plaintiff's deposition?