Taking Depositions in Frankfurt, Germany

If you share the common traits of any exceptional court reporter, you'll understand one of the keys to success is taking depositions in Frankfurt. Doing business in Germany is unique from doing business anywhere else in Europe. The Germans have a striking promptness and efficiency that shows in everything from the timeliness of transit to the punctuality of meetings. Between strikes and that certain je ne sais quoi, trains and buses outside Germany run on their own timetables. Not so in Frankfurt. 

Home to the U.S. Embassy, all German depositions must take place in Frankfurt. The Germans consider timeliness, procedure, and reliability of special importance. Good court reporting professionals share these characteristics, so the preparation should be a breeze. 

How to Schedule Depositions in Germany

Depositions in Frankfurt Are All About Timing

The number one rule for taking depositions in Frankfurt shouldn't come as any problem for a qualified court reporter: do things by the book and on-time. 

• Schedule with plenty of time ahead
• Check consulate hours; they will close and open on time
• Leave extra time for interpreters; witnesses will also be on a schedule

German punctuality should be kept in mind when scheduling depositions in Frankfurt. Take careful note of both deadlines and the Consulate’s hours. You can be sure doors will open and close promptly at the listed times, so plan accordingly when determining how many days will be needed for your depositions. Also keep in mind that if the witness will require an interpreter, more time will be needed for the deposition.

How to book a deposition in Frankfurt

Permission must first be granted by the German Ministry of Justice; depositions taken without said permission and/or without the U.S. Consulate’s involvement can lead to criminal charges against participants. The U.S. Consulate will request permission upon receipt of the notice, requested dates, and credit card authorization form for the scheduling fee. That fee is $1,283, and it is non-refundable once dates are approved. (Additional fees are listed on the website of the Consulate.) 

1. Get permission from the Ministry of Justice
2. Go to US Embassy in Frankfurt Germany
3. The US Consulate will gain permission to schedule a deposition from the German Ministry of Justice
4. Get dates, credit card authorization forms from the Consulate
5. Get and pay fee from US Consulate

IMPORTANT: All required documents must be received by the Consulate at least 6 WEEKS BEFORE PROPOSED DEPOSITION DATE.

Stay on track with a court reporting firm who knows Frankfurt from an American perspective

To match German efficiency, when scheduling depositions inFrankfurt, partner with a court reporting firm with years of experience covering depositions there, as well as reporters and videographers throughout Europe (reduced travel fees!). The firm will keep the scheduling process moving expeditiously, with expert guidance encompassing all details. They can check your list of participants and equipment list before you send them to the Consulate to ensure they comply with the guidelines, preventing delays or, more importantly, a person or a piece of equipment being denied entry at the Consulate. They can also remind you when these lists are due!

Expect to receive a copy of the rough draft of the deposition within hours of the conclusion of the day’s proceedings. This will be a great preparation aid if the deposition will continue into the next day. Realtime to your laptop during the proceedings is also a tremendous aid to keeping the deposition on pace. If you need one, the reporter can lend you a laptop for realtime viewing purposes.

Planning your trip to Germany! 

Planning for your deposition trip to Germany is much easier with a local insider on your side. Make sure that you have everything for your travel and stay ahead of time. If it's your first trip to Germany, be sure to give yourself extra time and plan meals ahead with a little research. 

Frankfurt is not only an efficient city, it is the largest financial center in continental Europe, the city of Goethe, and home to Palmengarten (botanical gardens), as well as Alt Sachsenhausen. Alt Sachsenhausen is a cobblestone district lined with Frankfurt’s oldest taverns serving apple cider (apfelwein or ebbelwoi to Frankfurters). Ask the reporter or videographer which tavern they recommend. The reporter can also provide hotel and vendor (printing exhibits) recommendations. Should you need any assistance with printing or shredding of exhibits, or any other logistics while in Frankfurt, the reporter or videographer can help.

For assistance scheduling in Germany, or anywhere else, contact Planet Depos International Scheduling at 888.433.3767 or international@planetdepos.com.