Checklist for U.S. Depositions in Mexico

Mexico is a party to The Hague Evidence Convention, and permits the taking of voluntary depositions of willing witnesses regardless of the nationality of the witness, with no special requirements. The requirements for taking depositions in Mexico are straightforward and easy to follow using the Planet Depos checklist specific to Mexico depositions.

Allowing enough time (approximately 4-6 weeks is best) for scheduling depositions overseas is extremely important because of the logistics associated with the scheduling and planning processes; however, Planet Depos is accustomed to providing last-minute coverage. Counsel will determine whether their witness is willing to be deposed. If so, both parties can stipulate and begin the process of setting up the deposition.

If the witness is unwilling and must be compelled to testify, a letter rogatory is required. For additional information regarding service of process, including steps for a letter rogatory, visit the International Judicial Assistance Website for the Bureau of Consular Affairs.

1. Select the deposition services needed:
   • U.S.-trained court reporter
   • U.S.-trained legal videographer
   • Any language interpreter
2. What is the location of the deposition in Mexico?
   • Do you need Planet Depos to reserve a conference room for you?
3. If 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 Mexico?
   • Do you need a location in the U.S.?
   • Can you attend from your firm’s videoconferencing suite?
   • Ask about Planet Depos’ Mobile Videoconferencing capabilities!
   • Document production:
     • Do you need assistance with exhibit printing?
4. Select your deposition date
   • • Start time
     • End time
5. Visa restrictions: there is no visa required for travel to Mexico for U.S. citizens
6. Make travel arrangements
   • • Flight
     • Car rental
     • Hotel accommodations
       • Contact Planet Depos for information about corporate discounts with our partner hotels
7. 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 needed
     • Preferred video format (DVD, MPEG1, Loaded DVD, Synchronized Viewer)
8. Send out Notice of Deposition to all counsel, your witness, and Planet Depos
9. Send prep materials to Planet Depos for reporter’s deposition preparation
   • • Notice of deposition
     • Complaint
     • Subpoena
     • Previous transcript(s)
     • Word index
10. Obtain emergency contact information for Planet Depos representatives
11. Provide emergency contact information for counsel
12. Travel safely to Mexico and contact Planet Depos with any questions once you’ve arrived!