What happens when you refuse to answer a deposition question?

Factual Questions
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I was watching a video that involved cops giving depositions when they screwed up with a capital F. Two responses triggered this question so I’ll address each separately. Oh and assume no objection from the other attorney.

What if you simply refuse to answer the question like:
Were you demoted, suspended or otherwise punished for your on-duty performance before the incident?
I’m not going to answer that. You have my file.

What if you equivocate to avoid answering like:
Q: Have you as a supervisor undertaken any de-escalation training?
A: Do you mean use of force or dog handling?
Q: ANY de-escalation training during your time as a supervisor?
A: I don’t understand the question. You could mean use of force or dog handling.
Q: Did you take any trainings, seminars, classes or other training on de-escalation while you were a supervisor?
A: I can’t answer the question since you could be referring to use of force OR dog training.

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Consequences Of Refusing To Answer

Refusing to answer questions during a deposition can lead to significant repercussions. Understanding these potential consequences is crucial for navigating legal procedures confidently.

Being Held In Contempt

When individuals refuse to answer deposition questions, courts may hold them in contempt. Contempt charges occur if a refusal disrupts the legal process or disobeys a court order. Penalties for contempt charges include fines, imprisonment, or both. For instance, courts have fined individuals up to $1,000 per day for non-compliance.

Court Sanctions

Court sanctions are another repercussion of refusing to answer deposition questions. These sanctions vary but generally encompass monetary fines, attorney fee payments, or other legal penalties. Courts can also dismiss claims or defenses as a result of non-compliance. In one case, a court dismissed a plaintiff’s entire lawsuit due to repeated deposition refusals. - SOURCE