Most lawyers know to request a digital copy of deposition transcripts. It doesn't cost very much, and digital files can be manipulated much more easily than paper: searching is simple, and sections can be easily moved to trial notebooks or anywhere else by cutting-and-pasting.
If the digital copy resides on a floppy disk, however, you might have problems. Floppies are easily lost. The better alternative is to get the transcript via email. Most court reporters offer this service, which allows you to save the deposition on your hard drive as soon as you receive it. You'll also have a backup in your email.
While a floppy can be transferred too, it's something that often gets put off until it's too late.
I am in a team of lawyers taking up to five depositions a day for a hearing later this month. I am staying at my office collecting and analyzing the depositions using CaseMap while the others travel around the state taking depositions. Everyone of the deposition transcripts has come to me by email. The e-transcripts arrive at least a day earlier than the paper versions. In this time-crunch, every day counts.
Posted by: Ed Still | January 14, 2006 at 09:40 AM
I long for the day when the entire judicial process is done electronically.
Posted by: Igots | January 14, 2006 at 08:26 PM