Checklist for U.S. Depositions in Israel

Israel is party to the Hague Convention, and permits the taking a U.S. deposition of voluntary witnesses without prior approval. Remember to allow enough time (roughly between 4-6 weeks is ideal) for scheduling depositions in Israel. Due to the logistics associated with the scheduling and planning process, this is extremely important. For specific information pertaining to taking depositions in Israel, please consult the U.S. Embassy’s website for Judicial Assistance.

1. Determine whether the witness is willing to be deposed. If so, both parties can stipulate and begin the process of setting up the deposition.
2. Select the deposition services needed:
   • U.S.-trained court reporter
   • U.S.-trained legal videographer
   • Any language interpreter (note that Hebrew interpreters prefer to work in pairs)
3. Determine the location of the deposition in Israel.
   • Do you need Planet Depos to reserve a conference room for you?
4. If you are not participating in person, do you require videoconferencing services? (If not, please skip to the next item on the checklist).
   • Do you need a location in Israel?
   • Will you need a location in the United States?
   • Can you attend from your firm’s videoconference suite?
   • Ask about Planet Depos’ Mobile Videoconferencing capabilities!
   • Document Production
     • Do you need assistance with exhibit printing?
5. Select your deposition date.
   • Start time
   • End time
6. Visa Restrictions:
   • There are special visa requirements for travel to Israel. For more information, contact Planet Depos’ International Scheduling Department.
7. Make travel arrangements.
   • Flight
   • Car rental
   • Lodging
     • Contact Planet Depos for information about corporate discounts with our partner hotels
8. Send a protective order to Planet Depos for representatives to sign. (if applicable)
9. Have you filled out the Planet Depos Standing Order Form? It’s an easy process that takes less than 60 seconds and will let us know:
   • Transcript turnaround time (regular or expedited)
   • Who should receive the Rough ASCII and final transcript
   • The number of realtime laptops that are needed
   • Preferred video format (DVD, MPEG1, Loaded DVD, Synchronized Viewer)
10. Send out Notice of Deposition to all counsel, your witness, and Planet Depos.
11. Send prep materials to Planet Depos for reporter’s deposition preparation:
    • Notice of deposition
    • Answer to Complaint
    • Subpoena
    • Previous transcript(s)
    • Word index
12. Obtain emergency contact information for Planet Depos representatives.
13. Provide emergency contact information of counsel.

Travel safely to the Israel and contact Planet Depos with any questions once you’ve arrived!