If a deposition runs beyond its allotted time, how can it be extended?

• A. It cannot be extended
• B. It may be extended only with the court's permission or by agreement of the parties
• C. It may be extended by the judge unilaterally
• D. It may be extended by the deponent's consent

Answer: (B)

Time limits for a deposition are not fixed to the party’s preference alone; they’re governed by a rule that generally sets a day of seven hours, with extensions allowed only if the court permits or the parties stipulate to more time. So, the way to extend a deposition is by obtaining a court order or by agreement (stipulation) of the parties. The deponent’s own consent isn’t enough to extend the time, and a judge cannot unilaterally grant an extension without a formal request or stipulation. This balance keeps discovery practical while preventing unlimited, unilateral extensions.