For what purpose can depositions be utilized?

Depositions serve a multifaceted role in the legal process, making the choice regarding their utilization very clear. They are primarily used for discovery, allowing parties to gather information from witnesses under oath prior to trial. This process not only helps assess the strengths and weaknesses of a case but also prevents surprises during the trial.

Additionally, depositions can be employed for impeachment purposes. If a witness's trial testimony contradicts what they stated in their deposition, that disparity can be highlighted to challenge the credibility of the witness in front of the jury. This dual use—both for discovery and impeachment—is critical in trial preparation.

Moreover, depositions can also be used as trial testimony under certain circumstances, such as when a witness is unavailable or if their testimony is deemed relevant. This makes their scope far wider than merely impeachment or discovery, encompassing various aspects of trial proceedings as well.

In contrast, other choices limit the use of depositions significantly. For instance, the suggestion of using them solely for impeachment ignores their broader role in discovery and trial preparation. Some choices imply a very restricted application, which does not reflect the comprehensive nature of depositions in legal practice. Thus, the correct answer recognizes the full utility of depositions across different phases of litigation.