A court videographer records courtroom and deposition proceedings. To provide recordings that will pass legal tests and meet generally accepted standards, this necessitates videography skills as well as knowledge of the law and legal system. Others may work without formal certification because they are members of professional organizations that certify their members. Although a specific license is not usually required, having a formal degree in videography and significant experience can be beneficial.
A court videographer also edits video in addition to taking it. Edits must adhere to legal guidelines; for example, the videographer cannot distort or manipulate testimony, but he or she may edit a video to stabilize shaking or fix other issues. Videographers can also add visual displays, title cards, and other features to a finished presentation for use in court an attorney. To ensure that recordings are appropriate, they must be familiar with the standards for determining whether a court will accept a video into evidence.
During court sessions, the court videographer can record sessions for the court or for the attorneys’ reference, depending on policy. As they plan the trial and respond to unfolding events, attorneys may find it useful to review video and transcripts from the day’s proceedings. If a witness is unable to attend court, some courts may allow the use of real-time video in testimony, in which case a court videographer can set up the system and travel to the witness to record and transmit.
Transcripts, closed captioning, and other related services may be offered companies that provide videography services. Other personnel are usually in charge of these tasks, allowing the court videographer to focus on capturing good video and audio from a deposition or trial. A sound technician can help with improved sound quality, which can help attorneys avoid challenges based on ambiguous testimony. Editing can also be used to improve audio quality and make it more crisp.
Segments for people interested in providing legal services can be included in videography educational programs. Discussions on how to set up and break down in legal settings, as well as specific legal issues that may arise during the shooting, editing, and use of video, are included. Workshops and classes are also offered professional organizations to their members. Some organizations may require certain classes and an exam before allowing videographers to join, ensuring a minimum level of quality among their members.