by Robert MacTavish
If English is not spoken by a deponent, an interpreter will be brought in to participate in the deposition. An experienced legal videographer can set up keeping the interest of all parties in mind.
Shooting the deposition across the table rather than down the length of the table works well in this situation. The reporter, at the end of the table, will be between the attorney asking the questions and the interpreter translating the questions and answers. Placing the witness adjacent to the reporter with the interpreter in the next position allows the interpreter to direct all questions and answers in the same direction. (See diagram below.) This reduces the need for the interpreter to move his or her head back and forth and the possibility of directing answers away form the ears of the reporter.
As the deposition starts, it is appropriate to include a dual shoot of the interpreter and the witness. After the interpreter is sworn first, zoom slowly to a single shot of the witness.
Videotaping the interpreted deposition offers the advantage of preserving not only the English testimony but also the foreign language spoken by the deponent and the interpreter. If a question arises later as to the correctness of any translation, it is available for review.
Positioning of deposition parties:
