Tips to Prepare for Remote Depositions via Zoom and Other Platforms

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced courts and lawyers to change their procedures drastically. While physical access to courts has been greatly limited, judges and lawyers are using technology to keep cases moving as much as possible. This includes employing virtual meeting tools to conduct depositions remotely. Zoom, Skype, WebEx and similar platforms have become a regular part of work and personal life for many people, but there are special considerations for using these tools during a legal proceeding.

If you are involved in a personal injury case or other litigation — whether as a plaintiff, a defendant or a witness — it is possible that you will need to give testimony in the form of a deposition. In the pre-COVID world, depositions almost always were taken in person, either at the office of a lawyer or some other agreed upon location. But during the pandemic, you can expect to be deposed remotely at your own home or another location, using one of the many virtual tools that have become mainstream.

Here is a short list of things that you should think about in preparation for your remote deposition. Considering these points can help the process go smoother for all concerned.

• Practice with the technology — You’ve probably experienced glitches when using conference-call platforms for work or recreation. Someone’s camera or microphone doesn’t work or a participant doesn’t know how to mute or unmute themselves. Our attorneys often conduct dry runs with clients to make sure they know how to use the virtual tool. Don’t be afraid to ask your lawyer to do the same.
• Appearance still matters — Most people understand the need to dress a certain way when going to court. Your attire also matters in the virtual world. Avoid clothing with garish designs or loud colors. Basic dark colors work well on camera. Grooming is also important, so if you need a shave, haircut or styling before your deposition, get it done.
• Speak slowly and enunciate — A good rule for public speaking is to speak slowly and clearly. This is even more important in virtual meetings, because you never know how your voice is carrying. Microphones or speakers may cut out for a second or the audio quality may degrade temporarily. Also, if a court reporter is trying to transcribe the proceeding, you’ll be asked to repeat your words if you go too fast.
• Eliminate distractions — Do your best to set yourself in a room where you can be alone, without kids, pets or other possible disruptions. Also, have good lighting, because shadows can be distracting to others on the call. Use a dry run to get your lawyer’s opinion on your visual set-up.

At Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. our Connecticut attorneys have become very experienced in conducting remote depositions during the pandemic. We’ll provide advice and guidance throughout your case. If you need legal advice, call 203-745-0942 or contact us online to arrange a meeting. We have offices in Hamden and East Haven.