Section One: Video Deposition Synchronization
Text-Video Synchronization
A text-video synchronization is the electronic synchronization of the written transcript of a deposition with the video of the same deposition. Similar to closed captioning, the written transcript of the deposition scrolls in tandem with the video as it is being played. Here is how text-video synchronization can assist attorneys:
How Does It Assist Attorneys?
Motion Preparation
- It helps with motion preparation. While preparing motions and other pretrial paperwork, you can copy and paste excerpts from the deposition video into your documents.
Trial Preparation
- Before trial, you can comb through the deposition for testimony you want the jury to see. You can mark the excerpts for your video specialists who may prepare a condensed version of the synchronized testimony to show to the jury.
- You have hired an expert witness, and you want him/her to review an excerpt from the testimony of this witness. Instead of a highlighted copy of a paper deposition, you can now send your expert a personalized excerpt of the witness’s testimony, including the ability for the expert to search using keywords.
- Any exhibits that are referred to can also be linked to the video deposition testimony and displayed as the witness is discussing the exhibit. Therefore, the screen can display the transcript, the exhibit, and the witness. You will be able to see the witness’s expression and reactions to the exhibits.
In-Trial Testimony
- When it comes to impeaching witness testimony, nothing beats a video. When a witness has a prior inconsistent statement, the synchronized video can be shown. Everyone will be able to hear what was initially said during the deposition and the body language associated with it.
- Your excerpted video testimony may be imported into trial management software. When a page and line number are referred to, that exact spot in the video appears on screens in the courtroom.
- Text-video synchronization allows the use of two senses, because you show the video with the text beside it. This increases jury attention as well as retention.
- Being able to see and hear the witness on video greatly assists the jury in assessing the demeanor and credibility of the witness.
- Today’s jurors are visually acclimated. They watch TV, video games, computer animations, and illustrations. Live witnesses, without question, offer the most fascinating testimony for jurors. If you can’t produce a live witness, a video is the next best thing.
Section Two: The Growing Field of Video Depositions for Court Reporters
When you picture a court reporter, you automatically think of a person sitting in front of a stenotype machine. Despite all the advances in technology, most people still associate court reporters with the traditional tools of the trade. Video is used in conjunction with a stenographer to capture every nuance of the proceedings. Learn more about the use of video for depositions and how it affects the role of the stenographers.
Video Depositions Are Cutting Edge
The concept of a video deposition isn’t new, and the method is rapidly advancing. Modern technology is making video depositions easier than ever. A deposition videographer can even make use of internet streaming to deliver live feeds. As streaming technology gets better and better, video depositions are likely to become more prevalent as an add-on for stenographers.
Using Video as an Add-On to Paper
Paper depositions have been a useful tool for a long time. However, videography is showing a lot of promise. For one, video-based depositions have one big advantage over text: it communicates body language. The human brain can comprehend images approximately 60,000 times faster than the written word. This means that video depositions have the impressive ability to transmit more information in less time. This includes body language and voice inflections that are not noticeable in a transcript. In a sense, video depositions give a viewer a real sense of the person.
Not Mutually Exclusive
All in all, there is a place in the modern deposition process for both San Francisco court reporters and video services. By using both services, you get the best of both worlds. You’ll have a video that allows you to examine a deponent in real life. It’s clear that together these methods have advantages that help build the strongest case.
How to Get Deposition Videography
You can request a video-synchronized deposition when you schedule your deposition with a court reporting firm. The typical process involves sending a professional court reporter and videographer to the deposition. Then, following the deposition, you will receive a disc containing a fully synchronized copy of the deposition video.
Looking for video deposition synchronization services with a San Francisco court reporting firm? For help with a video deposition or traditional court reporting, contact Combs Reporting. Our firm is a one-stop solution for all your deposition needs. Call (888-460-4060) or visit our website to schedule your next deposition.
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