Rule CrRLJ 4.6 - Depositions(a)When Taken. Upon a showing that a prospective witness may be unable to appear or prevented from appearing at a trial or hearing or if a witness refuses to discuss the case with either lawyer and that the witness's testimony is material and that it is necessary to take the witness's deposition in order to prevent a failure of justice, the court at any time after the filing of a complaint or citation and notice may upon motion of a party and notice to the parties order that the witness's testimony be taken by deposition and that any designated books, papers, documents, or tangible objects, not privileged, be produced at the same time and place.(b)Notice of Taking. The party at whose instance a deposition is to be taken shall give to every other party reasonable written notice of the time and manner of appearance for taking the deposition. The notice shall state the name and address of each person to be examined. On motion of a party upon whom the notice is served, the court for cause shown may extend or shorten the time and may change the manner of taking.(c)How Taken. A deposition shall be taken in the manner provided in the Civil Rules for Courts of Limited Jurisdiction. No deposition shall be used in evidence against any defendant who has not had notice of and an opportunity to participate in or appear at the taking thereof.(d)Use. Any deposition may be used by any party for the purpose of contradicting or impeaching the testimony of the deponent as witness, or as substantive evidence under circumstances permitted by the Rules of Evidence.(e)Objections to Admissibility. Objections to receiving in evidence a deposition or part thereof may be made as provided in civil actions.Wash. R. Ct. Lim. Juri. CrRLJ 4.6
Adopted effective 9/1/1987; amended effective 6/7/2024.