Rule 30(b)(6) permits a party to notice an organization's deposition on described matters, requiring the organization to designate persons to testify about information known or reasonably available to it. The 2020 amendment added a conferral requirement.
Testimony binds the organization.
Alternative Names:
Rule 30(b)(6), 30(b)(6)
Why it Matters?
The preparation obligation is what distinguishes this deposition from any other, since the designee must be educated on the noticed topics from documents and other employees rather than testifying from personal knowledge. Courts treat inadequate preparation as a failure to appear, with sanctions available. The 2020 conferral requirement gives both sides an opportunity to narrow topics before the dispute becomes a motion.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What does the preparation obligation require?
What did the 2020 amendment add?
