We all have been doing Zoom depositions for the last four years. As we have limped along, we have developed implied rules and protocols for having these depositions, but there are no written rules or guidance on how these depositions should be conducted.
Justice James Lambden (Ret.) who often is appointed as a Discovery Referee, has the answer. When he is the Discovery Referee, he serves on all parties his “REMOTE (HYBRID) DEPOSITION PROTOCOL” prior to depositions being conducted. When Justice Lambden attends the deposition, he confirms on the record that all parties have read and understands the protocol. He has found that his protocol aids him and the parties in conducting a clean Zoom deposition.
Below is Justice Lambden’s protocol. I recommend that you implement the protocol for Zoom depositions even if you don’t have a Discovery Referee and attach it as an exhibit to the deposition. Continue Reading ZOOM DEPOSITIONS—What is the Protocol