This educational session and mock deposition introduce common tactics used by plaintiffs’ counsel, emphasizing the Reptile Theory and similar strategies that can elicit damaging testimony from health care providers in professional liability cases. Participants will learn how these approaches can portray providers as threats, appeal to jurors’ fear instincts, and drive large verdicts, and how preparation helps providers avoid pitfalls and refocus testimony on the standard of care and patient involved.

Educational Objectives

• Recognize the Reptile Theory and similar tactics employed by plaintiffs’ counsel during depositions
• Discuss how to avoid common pitfalls and sidestep uncomfortable lines of questioning
• Practice answering cross examination questions in a mock deposition in which the Reptile Theory is successfully exploited