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Tips and Tricks for Remote Dispositions

Robert Stahle • March 8, 2021
A laptop computer is sitting on a desk in a classroom.

For many people, connecting with others using Zoom or other video conferencing software has become the new normal. While in-person depositions have some advantages, remote depositions are becoming increasingly common during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dealing with a remote deposition can involve a different planning strategy than dealing with an in-person deposition.

Here at Fitch & Stahle Law Office, our personal injury attorney has some tips and tricks that can help you adapt to the new normal of remote depositions.

What is a Deposition?

Before going into tips and tricks, it is important to know exactly what we mean by deposition. Put simply, a deposition involves a witness being asked questions about a case. The deposition has two purposes:


  • Find out what the witness knows
  • Preserve that witness’s testimony

At a deposition, all parties are to learn of all the facts before the trial begins so that nobody is surprised when a witness is put on the stand.

Who Should Be at the Deposition?

Because the primary purpose of a deposition is to gather information for the case, there will not be a lot of people present. Typically, the only people present are:



Sometimes depositions are recorded by a stenographer, though nowadays, electronic records are more common.

Remote Deposition Tips

The majority of depositions are now being handled remotely. To ensure that you are prepared for your deposition, follow these tips and tricks.

Plan and Prepare

Before your remote deposition, you’ll want to make sure that your home office is ready to handle it. Logistically, you should ensure that you have a stable Internet connection and a working microphone. Double-check the background that’s visible behind you. Items such as family photos, clocks, or artwork can be distracting. Similarly, make sure that members of your household do not enter the room while the deposition is taking place.

Use an Experienced Court Reporter

The court reporter, or videographer, in this case, should serve as the host of the remote deposition. They should be experienced in serving as the appointed officer in a remote setting. Here are some things that the court reporter needs to do before the hearing:


  • Be prepared with a stipulation to swear in the witness remotely
  • Be ready to handle documents electronically
  • Have the ability to scroll through pages on screen and add markups as instructed by counsel
  • Test out the Zoom platform before the deposition takes place to make sure that the platform is compatible with your computer

Siouxland Personal Injury Attorney

The attorneys here at Fitch & Stahle Law Office understand the importance of being able to adapt to the current environment. Whether you have suffered a personal injury due to an automobile accident, an animal bite, catastrophic injury, or boating accident, we aim to get you the compensation that you deserve, whether your hearing is remote or in person.

For professional personal injury representation, contact us at 402-494-3012 today.

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A car accident can change your life in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re commuting or running errands, and the next, you’re facing a wrecked vehicle, physical pain, and a growing stack of medical bills. It’s stressful, overwhelming, and often confusing—especially when you’re not sure what to do next. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we help car accident victims in South Sioux City , Sioux City , and across Nebraska and Iowa understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. In this post, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take after a crash—and how to protect your health, finances, and legal claim. Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health Immediately after a crash, your safety comes first. If possible: Move your vehicle out of traffic Check yourself and others for injuries Call 911 for medical help and law enforcement Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma—don’t show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam not only protects your health, it also documents your injuries for your insurance claim. Step 2: Call the Police and File an Accident Report In both Nebraska and Iowa , it’s important to report any crash involving: Injury or death Property damage over $1,000 A hit-and-run or uninsured driver The responding officer will create a police report , which includes key facts like: Date, time, and location of the accident Statements from drivers and witnesses Diagrams or photos of the scene Initial assessment of fault This report becomes vital evidence in your personal injury claim. Be honest and factual—but avoid admitting fault or guessing what happened. Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can) If you are physically able and it’s safe to do so, collect the following: Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and surroundings Driver’s license, insurance, and contact info of all involved Contact info for witnesses Notes about the weather, road conditions, and what you recall If you’re unable to collect this yourself, Fitch & Stahle Law Firm may be able to retrieve surveillance footage, witness statements, or crash data later—but the more you gather early, the better. Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company Most policies require you to notify your insurer after a crash. However, you do not need to give a recorded statement , especially before speaking to a lawyer. Stick to the basics: Where and when the crash happened Who was involved That you’re seeking medical treatment Avoid discussing fault, injuries, or potential settlement values. Insurance companies often use early statements to downplay your claim later. Step 5: Call a Car Accident Lawyer—Before You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance The at-fault driver’s insurance company may reach out soon after the crash. They might offer a quick settlement or ask for a recorded interview. Don’t be fooled— their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your recovery . When you call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we: Handle all communication with insurance companies Protect you from saying something that hurts your case Calculate the real value of your damages Make sure you aren’t pressured into a lowball settlement We offer free consultations and don’t charge legal fees unless we win your case. Step 6: Keep Track of Everything Start a folder or digital log for your car accident claim. Include: Medical bills and records Receipts for prescriptions or medical equipment Notes from doctor visits Pay stubs showing missed work A journal of your pain levels, emotional struggles, or daily challenges This documentation helps prove pain and suffering , lost income , and the long-term impact of your injury. What Compensation Can You Recover? Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for: Emergency room care and medical treatment Physical therapy and future healthcare needs Vehicle repairs or total loss Lost wages or reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Emotional distress Permanent disability or disfigurement If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving drunk or texting behind the wheel—you may also qualify for punitive damages . At Fitch & Stahle , we fight for the maximum compensation available under Nebraska or Iowa law. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim? The legal deadline to file a car accident lawsuit (called the statute of limitations ) is: 4 years in Nebraska 2 years in Iowa However, it’s best to act early. Delays in filing can lead to lost evidence, unclear medical records, and a weaker case overall. Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm? We’ve spent years helping injured drivers in the Siouxland region get justice after devastating car accidents. Here’s why clients trust us: ✅ Local Experience : Based in South Sioux City , we know the roads, courts, and insurers in both Nebraska and Iowa. ✅ Full-Service Representation : From crash investigation to courtroom litigation, we handle every step. ✅ Licensed in NE & IA : Whether your accident happened on I-29, Highway 77, or in town, we’ve got you covered. ✅ No Upfront Fees : You pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t Go Through This Alone—We’re Here to Help If you were injured in a car accident in South Sioux City , Sioux City , or anywhere in Northeast Nebraska or Northwest Iowa , don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim. 📞 Call us now at 402-494-3012 🌐 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com 📍 Visit us at our South Sioux City office At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we fight for car accident victims every day—and we’re ready to fight for you.