When you hire a Phoenix court reporter, it can be easy to just schedule them for a deposition and forget they need preparation just like you and your witness. The result? A frustrated reporter who may not be able to deliver what you need on the date you need it.
It takes time.
If you?re in need of a rush on a transcript, please let our reporter know when you schedule with them. It takes time to review punctuation and grammar, proofread, and make changes to deliver an accurate transcript to you. They can schedule their work accordingly and your Phoenix court reporting agency will be able to match you with someone who can meet your deadline.
Location matters.
When you schedule a conference room, think about where you, the witness, their attorney, and the reporter will be seated. It?s important everyone feel comfortable, especially the reporter who needs to hear everything that?s being said. It will save time asking for clarification later.
Speaking of clarity?
While a reporter can record sounds like uh-huh or ah-ha, it?s better that they record actual words like yes or no. The more clearly a witness can articulate, the more accurate the deposition. Also ask them to speak loud enough so the reporter can hear and not have to ask for clarification. This is especially true if it?s an expert witness using industry-specific terminology like a doctor or forensics expert.
Witness preparation
It?s not just the reporter who needs preparation, it?s important to work with the witness so they understand what will happen at the deposition and what is expected of them. If it?s an expert witness, allow them to review evidence including their own reports so they can recall details and events clearly.
No more multi-tasking
Your reporter is likely handling the marking of exhibits in addition to recording testimony. Allow them time to do this before asking the witness another question. This will save the time of repeating what?s already been stated just to get it in the record.
Most importantly, communicate with your reporter. They?re part of your team as much as your legal assistants. If the deposition time or location changes, they need to know. Otherwise you might be left waiting.
The best court reporters are the ones who are most informed prior to setting foot in a deposition conference room. Working with us, we can find the right reporter for your next case!
