Inna Castillo - December 9, 2024

In today’s evolving work environment, businesses have adeptly transitioned to embrace remote operations as part of the new normal. Zoom video conferences have become a mainstay in replacing traditional in-person meetings, while team collaborations have seamlessly shifted from office cubicles to dynamic messaging platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams.

The legal industry has been no exception to this transformation. As the need for efficient evidence-gathering persists, adopting remote depositions has become a powerful and prevalent solution. Fortunately, with the right technology, there is almost no barrier to conducting this more practical and cost-effective type of deposition, especially internationally.

Here are the steps you need to take in setting up remote international depositions: 

Research Legal Requisites

The primary consideration for conducting a remote international deposition is whether  it is allowed in your jurisdiction. Check for any statutory restrictions on using video conferencing for evidence gathering. If it is allowed, ensure you understand any conditions that must be met for the evidence to be admissible. You can consult a local counsel to ensure compliance, or engage a reliable international deposition agency for a more well-rounded support. 

Choose Reliable Technology

A remote international deposition would not be possible without a secure video conferencing platform, strong internet connection, high-quality audio and video equipment, and redundant backup recording. A trusted provider like Optima Juris can facilitate a smooth and seamless remote international deposition by deploying skilled Virtual Hosts that set up secure video conferencing and live monitoring. You can then zero in and your case without worrying about these technicalities.  

Hire Qualified Professionals 

Ensure that the appropriate resources for transcription and videography are booked, particularly those who have experience in virtual deposition protocols. For instance, a video recording of a deposition may be inadmissible in the United States if it was not filmed per the U.S. Federal Rules of Evidence standards. Hiring a trained U.S. legal videographer based in the location where the deposition takes place would mitigate this risk. An international deposition agency would have a wide network of certified and competent professionals for your every need, and having one on retainer removes the guesswork and further administrative costs.

Coordinate and Pre-Check 

A common challenge in depositions involving parties in different time zones is coordinating a suitable time for everyone. It is essential to synchronize effectively with opposing counsel regarding scheduling, the video conferencing platform to be used, and other instructions related to the conduct of the deposition. A trial video conference is also encouraged, to ensure that all devices are set up correctly and the parties are mutually audible.

Manage Exhibits and Proceedings

The parties should share exhibits in advance through electronic means to avoid any delay. During the deposition, the parties should confirm their identities and affirm their prior consent to the recording of the deposition. All participants must maintain proper decorum, speak clearly, and avoid supplying unnecessary information.

An international deposition agency would be armed and ready to support you every step of the way, and Optima Juris has over 24 years of experience in bridging gaps in depositions all over the world. We have a suite of depositions and arbitration services available globally, and we would love to get in touch with you to discuss further. Send us a message at depos@optimajuris.com for more information.