How To Prepare Your Witness for Video Depositions

With technology becoming more prevalent in today's court systems it's vital that lawyers change their strategy when preparing a witness for a video deposition.

When preparing make sure that your witness understands that in some states a video deposition can be used as an alternative of live testimony; as a result, you need to prepare him or her as if they were in front of a jury. One of the most imperative tips is to educate your witness to dispose of any distracting behaviors such as throat clearing, fidgeting, hair twirling, nail biting, tapping, etc. Why? It’s important because each unnecessary action is exaggerated on camera; especially when the ability to rewind, slowdown and fast forward will be used to make decisions. Making sure your witness remains composed at all times is imperative for a realistic testimony.


Other guidelines include practicing on camera so you can point out the good and bad to your witness, make sure your witness answers the questions instantaneously without pausing and that they are clothed conservatively.


Once your witness is prepped it's time to make certain that your video deposition goes smoothly. You can do this by choosing a reputable court reporting agency to provide your videographer. At CourtReporterNet.com we make sure that the background is simple by encouraging lawyers to choose a plain wall, drapery, or a bookshelf for a background so that the view is not distracting. Our professional videographers also make sure that lighting is ideal and that there are no shadows that could distract from the witness. We also plan ahead for technical issues by having separate microphones for the attorney and the deponent as well as monitoring all audio and video content to ensure the best deposition possible.



For qualified court reporters and videographers visit http://www.courtreporternet.com/. CourtReporterNet.com is the one-stop source for all your Court Reporting, videography and Transcription needs. Powered by innovative technologies, and a professional customer support staff, CourtReporterNet.com is sure to meet your complete satisfaction. The court reporters of CourtReporterNet.com are currently available in New York, California, Florida, Chicago and other areas throughout the United States.

Digital Depositions: Getting the most out of your court reporter

Should you use digital recordings during depositions and proceedings? Even though some professionals object to the use digital technology during depositions, there are many benefits.
Some court reporters, who have worked for years in the industry, still can mishear what is said. Video can help you back up a transcript and can help the court reporter create an accurate transcript of proceedings.

Another great way video can help is the problem of multiple people speaking at the same times. Sometimes, this can be hard to transcribe and video can help you, as the lawyer, as well as the court reporter accurately record each speaker’s word to ensure the transcript is perfect.
Lastly, being able hear how something was said is invaluable. Just saying the words, "I don't think so" in different tones can have plenty of different meanings.

There are many benefits to using digital technology during your next deposition, however there one set back that you should become aware of. Just because digital technology is used doesn't mean that a court reporter isn't needed especially when someone is gesturing and the video couldn't get to them in enough time.

For qualified court reporters visit http://www.courtreporternet.com/. CourtReporterNet.com is the one-stop source for all your Court Reporting, videography and Transcription needs. Powered by innovative technologies, and a professional customer support staff, CourtReporterNet.com is sure to meet your complete satisfaction. The court reporters of CourtReporterNet.com are currently available in New York, California, Florida, Chicago and other areas throughout the United States.