Regional Resource For Depositions in Europe

Based on our experience at Optima Juris, we estimate that about 70% of all foreign-held U.S. depositions take place in Europe. Due to the tremendous scale of the economic interdependence between Europe and the United States, American litigations often require testimony from European witnesses and experts. Every week, in fact, there are about a dozen U.S. depositions taking place in various European cities.

Tips and Tricks

The easiest countries for depositions in Europe tend to be those with the most providers (ie: certified court reporters, legal videographers) in the area: England is a big favorite, due to its highly-developed infrastructure and availability of world class English-language services. Spain, Norway and the Netherlands also boasts advanced infrastructures and a friendly attitude towards U.S depositions. Europe is a wonderful destination, with all the resources you need to conduct your deposition successfully.

European Parties to the Hague Evidence Convention

For a full list of all members: http://www.hcch.net.

*Non-member States

Security Issues

1. Get your paperwork straight

• • Make sure your passport is current.

• • Check to see if a visa is required.

• Check the Embassy rules for international depositions in your country of interest.

2. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.

Local Transportation

Find out how the locals get around the destination to which you’re traveling, and act accordingly. You won’t need a car rental in places like bike-friendly Amsterdam or London with its convenient underground Tube, unless you plan to go outside the city.

A car rental is your best bet if you’re traveling to locales that can’t be easily reached by rail or plane (such as the Irish countryside). Be mentally prepared to drive in a foreign country, which can be a frightening experience when faced with incomprehensible traffic signs, narrow streets or sheep roadblocks.

To get from city to city or country to country, examine your rail options in comparison to routes and prices offered by European discount airlines like easyJet or Ryanair. Travelers embarking on extensive travel within Europe may save money by purchasing a rail pass that permits unlimited train travel within a specified region.

Useful Links

The U.S. Department of State website can give you a quick overview of the official rules on taking testimony of willing witnesses in specific countries in Europe.

U.S. Consulate:

http://www.usembassy.gov/