Keys For Attorneys Managing Video Depositions With Witnesses

An important resource for discovery for attorneys is a video deposition. It's a process where witnesses are asked questions and provide answers while being recorded. If you want these sessions to go more smoothly for your legal practice, here is some important advice.

Explain the Purpose of Depositions to Witnesses

Witnesses typically have an easier time with video depositions when they know what they're being used for in the beginning. They then won't question this process as much or worry about how they'll come off in the video.

Before every attorney video deposition, sit down with witnesses that are important to your cases and explain to them the overall purpose of the deposition. Maybe it's to gather responses that will be shown later in an actual court setting or a means for making negotiations with the other party go more smoothly. 

Work With a Professional Company That Can Provide Equipment

You have a lot of things to juggle when dealing with important cases for clients. You don't want to add gathering equipment for video depositions to the list because it can detract from the more important responsibilities. Find a company that can provide this legal video deposition equipment for you.

They can bring out high-quality items like video recorders, sound equipment, and backdrops. Not only will that save you time and money sourcing this equipment yourself, but it can help your video depositions turn out better. Then you won't be tasked with going back through and making adjustments. 

Take Time to Make Witnesses Feel Comfortable

In order for your video depositions to turn out professional and meaningful, the witnesses you interview need to do certain things. For instance, they need to hold their hands by their sides, answer questions clearly, and be truthful in their responses.

You'll be more likely to get these things out of your witnesses if you take time to make them feel comfortable. Whether it's getting to know them a bit before the deposition begins or explaining to them how the process will go, you want them to be comfortable the entire time. Then you'll get the right information out of them when you start recording their responses.

If you're an attorney and wish to make the most out of video depositions, make sure you follow certain protocols. Even if you don't have a lot of experience with this practice, ample preparation is key to getting the best results. 

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