3 Reasons to Video a Deposition

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Legal professionals and our clients alike can greatly benefit from the use of video depositions. The increasing capabilities of video technology has made its use in legal proceedings very common in recent years. There are many reasons for this. Below are some of the biggest reasons why we use video depositions whenever possible.

How Can a Recorded Deposition Strengthen a Case?

  • It can more effectively convey information via body language. This is important as it can allow the jury and judge alike to judge the witness’s authenticity. The written word is not always enough to accurately convey critical information. At times it can be impossible to gain the same understanding of situational intent when referring only to text. Suspects or witnesses may say one thing but their body language may tell the real story. Fidgeting, lack of eye contact, and other similar behavior can raise suspicion or cast doubt on a witness’s testimony. Statements are often far more persuasive to all parties involved when the words are accompanied by a visual representation.
  • A video recording can allow a witness to provide testimony when they might not otherwise be able to do so. It’s not uncommon for witnesses to agree to provide a deposition in person, but it becomes difficult or even impossible. Perhaps the witness has a family emergency, a personal medical situation, or cannot take time off from work. Nearly every city in the U.S. has court reporting services that provide rooms and equipment for video depositions. A witness doesn’t even need to be in the same city as our legal firm in order to participate in a deposition. This also makes it easier to scheduling it around their needs.
  • It documents the initial testimony of a witness. Should a witness change their testimony on the stand, the video deposition can be referred to in subsequent questioning. It can also be used by an auto accident lawyer Memphis TN trusts to determine how the witness may appear in front of a jury, and whether or not they will want to call that person to the stand.

The Benefits of Video Depositions

Recorded footage of a witness’s testimony can be a powerful tool. Providing a visual presentation of that witness to the jury and judge can be invaluable. Witnesses who are crucial to the case but cannot be there in person for the deposition can still provide testimony. Video depositions will continue to grow in popularity and for many good reasons.

WBThanks to our friends and contributors from Wiseman Bray PLLC for their insight into video depositions.