Depositions are a critical part of the legal process, and videotaping them can be an invaluable tool for divorce attorneys in Birmingham, Alabama. Videotaping depositions allows attorneys to capture the witness’s facial expressions, pauses, change in voice tone, and mannerisms that can be used as evidence in court. 
It also allows for absentee witnesses to provide testimony to the jury as if they were present. However, there are certain protocols that must be followed when videotaping depositions.
Why Videotape a Deposition?
Videotaping depositions is beneficial for a variety of reasons. First, it captures the witness’s demeanor and eye movements which can help determine truthfulness. It can capture nonverbal cues, which can be lost in a written transcript. A witness’s facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice can provide insight into their credibility and demeanor. It provides visual evidence of events or conduct that cannot be captured in written form. Lastly, it allows absentee witnesses to provide testimony to the jury as if they were present in court.
Preparing for Videotaped Depositions
When preparing for a videotaped deposition there are several steps that should be taken beforehand in order to ensure success. First, make sure you have all necessary equipment such as cameras and microphones set up prior to beginning the deposition so there are no delays once it starts. Additionally, make sure you have enough lighting so that everyone is clearly visible on camera throughout the entire process. Lastly, ensure that all parties involved understand their roles and responsibilities during the deposition so there are no surprises once it begins. The party seeking to videotape the deposition must give notice to all parties involved in the case. The notice should include the intention to videotape and the location of the deposition. All parties involved must agree to the videotaping in writing. If any party objects to the videotaping, the deposition cannot be recorded.
During the Deposition
During the deposition, the videographer must follow specific protocols to ensure that the video record is admissible in court. Firstly, the videographer must swear in the witness at the beginning of the deposition. This is usually done on camera, and the witness must state their name, address, and occupation for the record. Secondly, the videographer must record the entire deposition, including all breaks and recesses. Any off-the-record conversations must be explicitly stated on camera.
The videographer must also ensure that the camera remains focused on the witness at all times. Any interruptions or distractions must be addressed and documented on camera. The videographer should not provide any commentary or interpretation of the proceedings. They must remain neutral and non-intrusive throughout the deposition.
Tips When Conducting Videotaped Depositions
Once you have prepared for your videotaped deposition there are still some tips you should keep in mind while conducting it with your contested divorce attorney:
- Speak slowly and clearly so everyone is able to understand what is being said on camera
- Make sure everyone is aware of where they should look when speaking
- Ask questions one at a time
- Allow adequate time for responses
- Take breaks when needed
- Keep track of time limits
- Make sure all documents referenced during the deposition are available on camera if needed.
After the Deposition
Once the deposition is complete, the videographer must provide a copy of the video record to all parties involved. The video record must be labeled with the case name and number, the witness’s name, and the date of the deposition. The video record should also be stored in a secure location, such as a law office or a court clerk’s office.
Legal Issues Surrounding Videotaped Depositions
When videotaping depositions there are certain legal issues that must be taken into consideration. For example, in federal court all parties involved must agree to being videotaped before any recording begins. Additionally, all parties must sign a consent form prior to the deposition being recorded. Furthermore, any recordings made during a deposition must remain confidential unless otherwise agreed upon by all parties involved or ordered by the court.
Although you will not need depositions in easy uncontested divorces, videotaping a deposition can be a valuable tool in litigation, but it must be done in accordance with specific protocols. All parties involved must agree to the videotaping in writing, and the videographer must follow specific guidelines during the deposition to ensure that the video record is admissible in court. By adhering to these protocols, divorce attorneys in Anniston, or anywhere else in Alabama, can ensure that they have a reliable record of the deposition that can be used as evidence in court proceedings.
Attorney Steven A. Harris regularly blogs in the areas of family law, bankruptcy, probate, and real estate closings on this website. Mr. Harris tries to provide informative information to the public in easily digestible formats. Hopefully you enjoyed this article and feel free to supply feedback. We appreciate our readers & love to hear from you!