Modern depositions have changed quite a bit over the past decade. You may be wondering how best to maximize your time and budget for the new industry landscape. If you find yourself asking if you need a legal videographer, we’ve compiled a list of the benefits of hiring legal videographers that explains how they can improve the accuracy of your court reporter when working in tandem with you.
Legal videographers typically arrive at the deposition before everyone else in order to set up all their equipment and account for the logistics of the room. They then provide both audio and video feed directly to the reporter’s laptop and headset. After the deposition, your court reporter will have access to the recording and can provide you with a transcript that has been synchronized to the videos.
If you’ve never used a videographer before and you’re wondering what to expect, you should know that your videographer will prioritize getting you the best shot for later trial. Most videographers prefer to shoot across the table with the witness looking into the camera, filming over the shoulder of the questioning attorney. The court reporter should be at the same end of the table between the attorney and the witness, but three or four feet from the table to account for the steno machine. This is advantageous for the court reporter as well, allowing them to watch the faces and read lips of both the witness and the attorneys.
Great legal video is likely to make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With a product so important, the value often exceeds the cost. It’s incredibly impactful for a judge or jury to see a person testifying while also reading the written transcript. Body language and the way it combines with words can be important indicators of truthfulness, and legal video may ultimately sway the jury. When you are selecting a legal video provider, be on the lookout for hidden fees, and confirm that they have the experience needed to provide you with the best work. For more information on legal videographer services, contact First Legal Depositions. We’re standing by to help you!
