How to Schedule a Deposition in 5 Steps
Scheduling a deposition involves several moving parts. This can include coordinating all parties involved as well as selecting the right location, setting up special services, and making sure all the necessary technology is available. When scheduling a deposition, here are several steps to follow:
Make Sure to Schedule Ahead
The further ahead a deposition is scheduled, the easier it is to organize. Locations can change, start times can change and even witnesses can change, but having the date on the books will give greater flexibility for accommodating those variables . This is especially true if a deposition is taking place out of state. This may require scheduling several months in advance to secure the location and resource(s).
Why the Deponent is Important
It’s important to take into consideration the individual being deposed. Is it a doctor, the plaintiff, or an expert in a specialized field? This will enable the reporting service to choose the right reporter for the deposition. The best reporter should always be matched to the individual giving the deposition. Some reporters have a better understanding of certain technical or medical terms. It’s also important to remember that the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure states that deponents must receive an appropriate notice of when and where a deposition will take place.
Are Additional Services Needed?
It’s necessary to know exactly what types of equipment will be needed and what the technical requirements will be. Will there be a need to have access to copiers, scanners, or printers? Is anyone appearing remotely? Do you need realtime or a videographer? Is the venue close to convenient parking or public transportation?
Estimate the Duration
Will more than one day be needed? Letting your provider know if a deposition will go into consecutive days might allow the same reporter to complete all the sessions. While the laws regarding the length of a deposition are different in each state, the Rules of Civil Procedure (rule 30(d)) limits a deposition to seven hours in one day.
Consider What Access will be Needed
After the deposition, you’ll want quick and easy access to the transcript and exhibits. Make sure the deposition service you’re using provides online access/an online repository. It’s also important to note that the transcript turnaround time can vary considerable with different reporting agencies. If you need your final transcript outside of that standard turnaround time, discuss this at the time of scheduling.
Aptus Court Reporting provides global court reporting solutions with state-of-the-art technology and a team of highly trained professionals. Contact Aptus Court Reporting for more information.
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