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Category: Info For Attorneys

International Depositions Tips: Depos in China

International Deposition Tips: Depos in China

Karen Fahr / October 26, 2016

It’s time for another segment of International Deposition Tips with Optima Juris. Kimberlee Castro, Director of Scheduling and Global Deposition Expert, explains the rules and regulations for setting up a U.S. deposition in China. If you are a lawyer, paralegal, or legal professional looking to organize a deposition in China, you will want to watch this…

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Live Coverage of STARCON16

Catherine Beeny / October 13, 2016

Are you ready for STARCON16?  This not-to-be-missed conference, hosted by the Society for the Technological Advancement of Reporting (STAR),  brings together the best minds in the court reporting industry for robust seminars and workshops on the development and advancement of technology.  As the driving force behind state-of-the-art court reporting technology, STAR provides a platform for members to present their ideas to product manufacturers in one united voice. And you can be…

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International Deposition Tips: How to Swear in a Witness Abroad

International Deposition Tips: How to Swear in a Witness Abroad

Karen Fahr / October 5, 2016

We are back for another segment of International Deposition Tips with Optima Juris.  In our over fifteen years of experience organizing depositions abroad, the most common question we receive from clients is: We have a foreign witness we need to depose outside the U.S. What should we do to ensure that the oath is administered correctly? Luckily, the…

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International Deposition Tips: Depos in the UK

Karen Fahr / September 21, 2016

It’s another segment of International Deposition Tips with Optima Juris. This week, Kimberlee Castro, Director of Scheduling and Global Deposition Expert, shares her helpful tips and knowledge on setting up a U.S. deposition in the United Kingdom. This is a must watch for all lawyers, paralegals, and legal professionals looking to organize a deposition in the…

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International Deposition Tips: First Step to Setting Up a Depo Outside the U.S.

Catherine Beeny / August 24, 2016

We are very excited to unveil our first video from our brand new video series, International Deposition Tips.  The entire Optima Juris team will be sharing insider tips, advice, guides, and information about international depositions in these quick and easy-to-view videos.  First up we have Optima Juris CEO, Ian Hardy, explaining the first step to…

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Court Reporters for International Depositions

International Depositions: 3 Tips Every Organizer Should Know

Karen Fahr / August 2, 2016

Are you ready to pull your hair out trying to figure out how to plan a U.S. depo in another country? Rest assured that international depositions happen all the time and organizing one can be a simple, stress-free process. Simply follow these three essential tips and you can have a tidy and successful deposition abroad – benefiting your clients and your bottom line. Tip 1: Plan ahead Planning an international deposition requires time. We recommended giving yourself a four week leeway.  Of course, it’s…

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Video: How to Set Up a Deposition in Germany

Catherine Beeny / July 22, 2016

Global Deposition Expert and Director of Scheduling, Kimberlee Castro, explains how to set up a U.S. deposition in Germany with complete success and minimal stress. Although taking a deposition in Germany can have its challenges,  they are 100% possible and Kimberlee personally helps organize them all the time. About Us Optima Juris has been helping…

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Case Study: Deposition in France

Case Study: Multi-city, multi-day deposition in France

Kimberlee Castro / July 13, 2016

Here at Optima Juris we absolutely love helping our clients find solutions to difficult or challenging international depositions. We recently had a client who needed our help setting up several depositions with interpreters in two locations in France. Of course, we were more than ready to tackle the project. The Challenge: A pharmaceutical company needed…

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Brexit not expected to affect US depositions in the United Kingdom

Brexit Not Expected to Affect US Depositions in the United Kingdom

Karen Fahr / June 27, 2016

Just days after Britain voted to leave the European Union and shocked the world, the Brexit vote continues to create havoc on global markets as the value of the pound tumbled. The Bank for International Settlements said there is likely to be a “period of uncertainty and adjustment” in the aftermath of Britain’s decision to…

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Day One: 2016 NCRA Firm Owners Conference

Day One: 2016 NCRA Firm Owners Conference

Ian Hardy / April 17, 2016

After a long day of travels I have made it to beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico for the 2016 NCRA Firm Owners Conference. The event, which is designed exclusively for owners and managers of court reporting and captioning firms, is being held for the first time in the Caribbean, and I have zero complaints about…

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Depositions in Kuwait – What You Can and Can't Do

Ian Hardy / April 16, 2016

Luckily, depositions of willing witnesses in Kuwait are pretty straight forward and usually do not require any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Here is the latest official info on taking depos in Kuwait, taken from the U.S. Department of State website https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/Judicial-Assistance-Country-Information/Kuwait.html: Voluntary depositions may be conducted in Kuwait regardless of the nationality…

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Backstage at the NCRA Firm Owners Conference

Catherine Beeny / April 5, 2016

Every year court reporting executives come together to discuss innovation and the future of the court reporting industry at the NCRA Firm Owners Executive Conference. This is one of NCRA’s most prestigious events and the largest gathering of court reporting firm owners and managers in the world. Optima Juris President and Founder, Ian Hardy, will…

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Swearing in a Witness Abroad

Infographic: 5 Tips for Swearing In a Witness Abroad

Karen Fahr / February 17, 2016

Have a witness you need to depose in a foreign country? Wondering how you can administer the oath correctly? There are a number of possible solutions available for swearing in a witness outside of the U.S. Our quick and easy infographic provides some practical suggestions based on our extensive experience scheduling depositions abroad. Need More?…

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US Deposition in England

Optima Juris 2015 Year in Review

Catherine Beeny / January 19, 2016

It was another fantastic year for Optima Juris with depositions around the world, amazing clients, and lots and lots of fun. Check out what we got up to in 2015. Optima Juris has been helping law offices across the globe find the highest quality certified court reporters, legal videographers, and interpreters for over 15 years. If…

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Giving to Charities | Optima Juris

Giving to Charities | The True Meaning of the Holiday Season

Catherine Beeny / December 10, 2015

The holidays are here and it is the perfect time to reflect on what this time of year is truly all about. While decorations, festive dinners, and non-stop shopping sprees are icons of the season, connecting with people is at the core of what makes any holiday special. Giving to those in need brings us all…

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Optima Juris Thanksgiving Facts Infographic

Did You Know? Thanksgiving Fun Facts Infographic

Karen Fahr / November 19, 2015

Thanksgiving is almost here and that means time for family, feasting, watching football, and shopping until you drop. As we here at Optima Juris get prepared to say our thanks for this wonderful year, we thought you might enjoy these fun facts about Thanksgiving.     Optima Juris has been helping law offices across the globe find the…

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nfographic: Mini Guide to Interpretation for International Depositions

Infographic: Mini Guide to Interpretation for International Depositions

Karen Fahr / October 7, 2015

Interpreters play a huge role in most international depositions.  The right interpreter can be the difference between success and disaster, so it is important to understand interpreting basics.  Here is our mini guide to interpretation for international depositions. Optima Juris has been helping law offices across the globe find the highest quality certified interpreters for…

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Infographic: Insider's Guide to Depositions in China

Catherine Beeny / September 23, 2015

Are depositions in China possible?  We get asked this question all the time and while it may look impossible, you can get the deposition you need from a witness who resides in China.   Click on the infographic below to see our Insider’s Guide to Depositions in China and feel free to contact us with any questions you may…

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Infographic: Labor Day Fun Facts

Catherine Beeny / September 7, 2015

Optima Juris would like to celebrate this Labor Day with an appreciative thank you to all the hardworking lawyers, paralegals, secretaries, and countless legal professionals here in the United States and throughout the world. Enjoy the infographic below highlighting a selection of interesting & fun Labor Day facts. We would also like to thank all…

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3 Key Factors for a Successful Deposition in Germany

Infographic: 3 Key Factors for a Successful Deposition in Germany

Catherine Beeny / September 2, 2015

Planning a deposition in Germany can sometimes seem a little overwhelming. With all the rules and regulations it is easy to get lost in the mix. But have no fear! At Optima Juris we have been successfully organizing depositions in Germany for the past 15 years and we know what it takes to make a…

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Obtaining Discovery Abroad with Virtual Presence Technology

Obtaining Discovery Abroad with Virtual Presence Technology

Karen Fahr / August 21, 2015

Technology is all around us – connecting us closer to the world than ever before. In recent years, the use of teleconferencing technology to depose a foreign witness has become a smart financial choice to offset rising legal business travel expenses. Of course, nothing beats physically being present; and thanks to videoconferencing advancements and high-bandwidth…

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Tipping Etiquette for International Depositions

Catherine Beeny / August 14, 2015

Awareness about the tipping customs in foreign locales can come in handy, especially when traveling for an international deposition.  While it’s difficult to cover the tipping etiquette of all countries in a single post, here are some we think you’ll find useful when budgeting for your next international deposition. AFRICA MOROCCO At restaurants 10% is…

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Deposition in India

Organizing a U.S. Deposition in India

Kimberlee Castro / July 30, 2015

India is an enormous and varied country with a plenitude of languages, culinary taste and history. As an emerging global powerhouse, India is on track to overtake China as the world’s largest economy by 2030, and projected to grow more than 30 percent in the information technology sector by the end of 2015. As India’s…

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For Attorneys: Top 7 International Golf Courses

Catherine Beeny / July 16, 2015

After a long day of international deposition proceedings, it’s great to rejuvenate mentally with one of life’s many pleasures, golfing. Hitting the links is not only a proven stress reliever, but playing in majestically landscaped courses can provide an experience to retune all your senses. With 15 years of providing international deposition services, we know…

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5 Helpful Tips to Working With an Interpreter for an International Deposition

Karen Fahr / July 9, 2015

Language barriers are often a hurdle when dealing with litigation abroad. Finding the right interpreter for your law firm to handle these language differences can mean the difference between success and disaster.  An experienced, professionally certified interpreter can ensure that your international deposition runs as smoothly and headache-free as possible. Here are 5 tips to…

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The Insider’s Guide to Depositions in China

Kimberlee Castro / June 3, 2015

China is one of those countries where lots of questions about setting-up a depo frequently pop-up in my inbox.  Although not the friendliest to U.S. depositions taking place on their soil, there are a few ways to get the testimony you need from a witness who resides in China. 1. Basics in China Law Even…

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3 Key Factors For Successful Depositions in Germany

Kimberlee Castro / May 28, 2015

Although organizing depositions in Germany can have its challenges, we have found that by taking the right steps you can be sure to make it a success. Follow these basic guidelines and your next deposition in Germany will run as smoothly as it would in the U.S. Start Planning Early for Depositions in Germany If…

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Options for Deposing a Witness in Brazil

Kimberlee Castro / May 14, 2015

When most people think of Brazil they think of beautiful beaches and the colors of Carnival.  When I think of Brazil I think of tricky depositions and creative thinking. Brazil currently forbids the taking of depositions for use in U.S. courts.  Although this can sound like a no win situation there are options to getting…

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International Depositions Travel Tips for Beating Jet Lag

International Deposition Travel Tips: How to Avoid Jet Lag

Ian Hardy / December 17, 2014

If you are an attorney, paralegal, or court reporter traveling for a deposition being held in a country half way around the globe, chances are that you will have a problem adjusting to the new time zone. Jet lag can be a real burden, especially when you know your depo will be require you to…

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Planning an International Deposition – Guidelines for Attorneys Part 2

Ian Hardy / October 2, 2014

  In Part 1 of our article “Planning an International Deposition – Guidelines for Attorneys” we discussed how to handle setting up a deposition abroad with a willing witness. But what if you have an unwilling witness that must be compelled to appear?   There are mechanisms in place to facilitate this under international law, which…

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Planning an International Deposition – Guidelines for Attorneys – Part I

Ian Hardy / September 25, 2014

Depending on the country in which the foreign witness is located, setting up a deposition abroad in a civil or commercial matter may be easier than you think. This article provides some general guidelines for U.S. attorneys who wish to organize the depositions of foreign-based witnesses. Step 1: Review the Relevant Code of Civil Procedure…

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Deposing a Willing Witness in New Zealand

Ian Hardy / August 18, 2014

Even though they are not a party to the Hague Evidence Convention, New Zealand does allow the deposition of willing witnesses without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Here is the official statement from the U.S. Department of State website about taking voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in New Zealand https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/Judicial-Assistance-Country-Information/NewZealand0.html: Voluntary depositions…

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International Depositions 101: A Preview

Ian Hardy / July 28, 2014

Optima Juris President Ian Hardy will be presenting his exclusive seminar, “International Depositions 101,” at the NCRA Convention & Expo this Friday 8/1/14. We are so excited about this event that we wanted to give you a little preview of what’s in store: Where do international depos happen? Everywhere in the world! Some spots, however,…

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Countdown to the NCRA Convention & Expo

Ian Hardy / July 24, 2014

  Optima Juris is proud to be an NCRA member and the only 100% American international deposition agency* As a California registered company, run from Los Angeles, we pride ourselves on providing American high standards of service, all over the world. Your requests are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Beware of…

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Taking Voluntary Depositions of Willing Witnesses in Turkey

Ian Hardy / July 23, 2014

Need to depose a willing witness in Turkey? You are in luck. Turkey is a signatory to the Hague Evidence Convention and in general you can depose willing witnesses without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Below, is the latest official info on taking depos in Turkey, taken from the U.S. Department of…

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Depositions in 2014 | What's in Store?

Ian Hardy / July 17, 2014

  Optima Juris is coming to the NCRA Convention & Expo! In a few weeks, July 31 – August 3, 2014, the NCRA will be hosting its annual Convention & Expo in San Francisco. This much talked about event is the largest annual gathering of court reporters, captioners, CART providers, scopists, legal videographers, trial presenters, and other…

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Deposing a Willing Witness in the Philippines

Ian Hardy / July 15, 2014

Although not a party to the Hague Evidence Convention, the Philippines allows the deposition of willing witnesses without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Here is the official statement from the U.S. Department of State website about taking voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in the Philippines https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/Judicial-Assistance-Country-Information/Philippines.html: Philippine authorities have advised the U.S….

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How to Depose Willing Witnesses in Finland

Ian Hardy / June 20, 2014

Finland is one of the easier, less restrictive places to schedule a deposition. As a signatory to the Hague Evidence Convention, you can depose willing witnesses in Finland without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Here is the latest official info on taking depos in Finland, taken from the U.S. Department of State…

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Deposing a Witness in Spain | What You Need to Know

Ian Hardy / May 20, 2014

As with other European countries, Spain is a relatively easy place to schedule a deposition.  Because it is a signatory to the Hague Evidence Convention, in general, you can depose willing witnesses without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Below, please find the latest official info on taking depos in Spain, taken from…

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Can I Depose a Willing Witness in Thailand?

Ian Hardy / May 8, 2014

Although not a party to the Hague Evidence Convention, Thailand allows the deposition of willing witnesses without any special formalities or involvement of foreign courts. Here at Optima Juris, we arrange depositions regularly in Thailand and are pleased to report a 100% success rate. This is the official statement from the U.S. Department of State…

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Africa Court Reporter Regional Resource

Ian Hardy / July 22, 2013

Depending on your deposition country, Africa can be among the most challenging destinations for deposition work. The situation varies widely from country to country, and can shift over time; so please contact us for country-specific details. But don’t worry: depositions do happen here and we organize a great many of them every year. Currency In…

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The Lowdown on Depositions in Europe: Part 3 of 3

Ian Hardy / July 13, 2012

In Part 1 of 3 in this article series we presented you with an overview of subject of organizing and conduction U.S. depositions in Europe. Click here to read The Lowdown on Depositions: Part 1 of 3 In Part 2 of 3 in the article series we go into detail about the legal steps that are required…

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The Lowdown on Depositions in Europe: Part 2 of 3

Ian Hardy / July 12, 2012

In Part 1 of 3 in this article series we presented you with an overview of subject of organizing and conduction U.S. depositions in Europe. Click here to read The Lowdown on Depositions: Part 1 of 3 In this article we go into detail about the legal steps that are required to complete the international deposition…

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Depositions in Europe

The Lowdown on Depositions in Europe: Part 1 of 3

Ian Hardy / July 11, 2012

Do you have an upcoming deposition to plan in Europe, or are you considering conducting one there in the future? This article contains an insider’s overview of the U.S. deposition scene in Europe, offering some useful tips and tricks, as well as some warnings about pitfalls to avoid. Please read on for all the details…

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The Definitive FAQ for Taking U.S. Depositions Abroad, Part II

Ian Hardy / January 24, 2012

This is the second part of The Definitive FAQ for Taking U.S. Depositions Abroad article. You can find Part I here. If you have any questions about this subject feel free to leave a comment or reply to us on our Optima Juris Facebook Page 6. Will legal video shot in a foreign country play correctly…

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Legal Industry iPad 2 Apps – A Comprehensive List

Ian Hardy / October 25, 2011

Top iPad Apps Throughout the week we have tweeted, posted on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Tumblr some really impressive iPad 2 apps that can be of real use for Attorneys, Paralegals, Court Reporters or Legal Videographers. Instead of letting this list get lost in the socialshpere we put it all together for you in a comprehensive…

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Technology and International Depositions, Part I

Ian Hardy / September 26, 2011

Like every other field of human endeavor, technology plays un undeniable role in how U.S. depositions are conducted abroad. This article is the first in a series where we’ll explore how technology can be harnessed to make foreign depositions easier and less expensive. Low Tech but Still Useful: Telephonic Depositions One of the main costs…

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Swearing in Witnesses Abroad: A Primer

Swearing in Witnesses Abroad: A Primer

Ian Hardy / September 23, 2011

In our twelve years of experience organizing depositions abroad, the most common question my agency receives from clients is as follows: We have a foreign witness we need to depose outside the U.S. What should we do to ensure that the oath is administered correctly? Luckily, the answer to that question is probably less complicated…

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How to Conduct a Deposition Abroad

Ian Hardy / September 22, 2011

Attorneys: get ready! In our globalized world, more and more cases involve testimony from witnesses residing abroad. When this happens, you may find yourself getting geared up to take that flight into a foreign country, with the aim of nailing that crucial testimony for your matter pending in a U.S. jurisdiction.  What are the steps…

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The Lowdown on Depositions in Africa

Ian Hardy / July 20, 2011

Depending on your deposition country, Africa can be among the most challenging destinations for deposition work. The situation varies widely from country to country, and can shift over time; so please contact us for country-specific details. But don’t worry: depositions do happen here and we organize a great many of them every year. Here is…

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Your Guide To Enjoying Global Depositions

Ian Hardy / July 14, 2011

The Joy of Doing Global Depositions Let’s face it: global depos can be hard to do. Those of us who do them for a living know that arranging depositions abroad entails a lot of preparation, along with a fair share of stressful moments. In the midst of all the hard work, however, there’s one thing…

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