iPads in the Deposition Setting

The Apple iPad is changing the way attorneys conduct a deposition.  Here are a few observances that we’ve seen and suggestions on how to best maximize this technology.

Go green!  With PDF files, you no longer need to cart around reams of paper.

·         Written interrogatories – Instead of carrying paper, convert your files into PDF.

·         Certified transcripts from your certified court reporters can be downloaded onto your computer and read in PDF format.

o   Traditional PDF or Condensed Min-U-Script with interactive word concordance, your options are limitless.

·         Scanned Exhibits – Instead of carrying paper exhibits for reference purposes only, scan the exhibits to PDF and store them on your iPad.  No more lugging heavy boxes from site to site.  At the conclusion of the deposition/hearing, Doris O. Wong Associates, Inc., is happy to scan your marked exhibits and place them in a repository for future reference.

PDF files – Files are searchable making finding information easy.  Copy, paste and print your files.  Whether it’s a deposition transcript, exhibits or supporting case files, PDF files give you the ability and flexibility to carry multiple files in one easy location.  

Adobe Reader – if you’re interested reading the PDF files, this is a free APP.

iAnnotate or GoodReader APPS - Write notes and make annotations to your PDF file.

Dropbox – Easy file transfer from your iPad to your networked computer so that your files are wherever you are.

E-mail – set up your iPad to receive your office and home e-mail.

Access Legal Dictionaries and Law Libraries – By adding Black’s Law dictionary, ABA Journal, Lawyers.com, etc., to your iPad you can conduct legal research from virtually anywhere.

Access to Realtime Transcripts – CaseViewNet is coming out with a new free APP that will allow you to get interactive realtime directly from the reporter’s notebook.  At the conclusion of the deposition the transcript and your notes are saved on the iPad for future reference.  Of course, the certified transcript will replace the uncertified rough draft upon completion.

Video conferencing – with the iPad’s camera, you can hold impromptu face-to-face conferences and chats.  This by no means should replace a true video conference with secured IP lines, cameras and digital microphones.

Are you a Kindle lover?  All books purchased on the Kindle can be shared to your iPad.  Simply download the Kindle APP and you’re ready to go.  If you have a large law library of reference books, this is a great way to always have your books on hand.

WiFi, 3G or 4G – as long as you have an Internet connection you can be connected to your office e-mail at all times as well as search the Internet.

Of course there are many other applications for the iPad.  Have fun exploring the possibilities.