Often a person’s non-verbal actions say a lot more than his/her actual words. You will be surprised to know that some studies have claimed that as much as 90 percent of communication is non-verbal. We do not realize this, but our eyes, posture, expressions, tone, etc. All have a bearing on how others receive our message JOHN GIORGI.
Here’s what you must know about the videotaped depositions law trial according to John Giorgi-
When it comes to depositions, paying attention to non-verbal communication becomes even more crucial as these are situations where witnesses give critical statements. Now, although they give testimonies under oath, you can never be sure whether they are telling the truth or not. But the good thing is, a witness’ non-verbal actions can tell a lot about the integrity of his/her statements. Now, suppose you’re going to rely solely on the paper transcript to record testimonies. In that case, you won’t be able to get an idea about a witness’ competence. And understanding, and of course, the truthfulness of the statement, something which non-verbal actions can help you decipher.
These are the reasons why John Giorgi recommended attorneys hire a well-reputed court reporting service to videotape depositions. To help you understand the value of legal videography in depositions, we have listed some points. Let’s take a look at them.
Know the details during the trial
When attorneys ask a deponent a key question, he/she unknowingly gives off some vital non-verbal signs right before giving a statement. Their natural reaction to the question will let attorneys get an idea about their state of mind. And whether they are telling the truth or not. There are depositions in which witnesses display emotional or physical pain without saying anything. Apart from this, their eye movement, posture, tone, etc., also say a lot. All of this can be analyzed only with the help of legal videography.
Hard proof
The problem with the written record of a deposition is that you cannot use it to influence a judge or a jury in your favor. For example, in many depositions, the opposing attorney tries his/her best to manipulate the witness’ statements somehow. Now, if there were any discrepancies between the witness’ statement. And the opposing lawyer’s arguments, establishing them in court would prove a bit difficult if you have just got written transcripts. But if you have got a videotape of it, then making head or tail of any discrepancies would become a lot easier.
As per John Giorgi, every experienced, skilled lawyer knows that most trials’ outcome depends on how successfully you can present a convincing story before the judge or the jury. A proper video recording of the witness giving statements is much more impactful in courts than reading a deposition’s written transcript. A videotaped testimony is able to hold a jury’s attention and helps the litigator convey his/her point.
As you can clearly see, videotaped depositions are much more potent than written transcripts. Having both at your disposal will help you make a strong case in a trial. You can get in touch with a top court reporting firm for legal videography services.