1. Have the reporter decide where it is most advantageous for him/her to sit. They may prefer one side of the conference table due to noise, i.e., vents or proximity to the hall, and usually like to sit between questioning attorney and deponent.
  2. Make sure reporter has a suitably comfortable seat. Some reporters prefer secretarial chairs.
  3. Allow for breaks in the deposition, especially if it’s contentious. This really helps the reporter stay alert.
  4. If someone is prone to interrupting questions or answers, do what you can to alert them to the fact it will make for a very unclear transcript.
  5. Give the reporter a glossary of names and terms beforehand, especially if there are technical terms, acronyms or unusual name spellings. The reporter will be better prepared and will not have to interrupt or get spellings at every break and keep you after the case.
  6. For difficult cases, put a sheet of paper before the reporter or yourself so they can jot down questions or nod at you and you can jot down names or terminology as they come up.

We will continually update this list so you can fine-tune your reporter-friendly protocols. Always feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding procedural issues or industry norms.