A guide to understanding what qualifies as a complex case and the specific procedures you must follow.
Table of Contents
What is a “Complex Case”?
Under the California Rules of Court, a complex case requires exceptional judicial management to:
- Prevent unnecessary burdens on the court or litigants
- Expedite proceedings
- Manage costs effectively
- Promote sound decision-making
Complex cases often involve multiple law firms, 30+ attorneys on depositions, or specialized case types (e.g., class action lawsuits).
Videographer Expectations in a Complex Case
While the core responsibilities remain the same, complex cases require extra diligence due to more participants and potential case-specific procedures.
Below are key expectations:
Roll Call Protocol
A roll call is conducted at the start of a Complex Case deposition instead of allowing attorneys to state their appearance on the record. This ensures that all participants are accounted for and that proceedings begin in an orderly manner.
For remote depositions:
- Conduct a roll call instead of waiting for attorneys to state their appearance.
- Start with the Taking Attorney, then the Defending Attorney, followed by the remaining participants alphabetically.
For hybrid (in-person + remote) depositions:
- Begin with those physically present, then move to remote participants.
Do Not Ask for Video Orders
Unlike standard cases, complex cases often have predefined video order stipulations.
Do not ask attorneys for video orders at the end of the deposition.
Steno Tech Assistant
Every remote Complex Case deposition with a Steno remote meeting link will have a Steno Tech Assistant (STA) to assist with:
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Technical issues during the session
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Exhibit sharing and presentation via the Steno Connect App for Zoom
In-Person Tech Assistant
For some complex case jobs, the client may request an in-person tech assistant to help with on-location equipment setup and maintenance. If you are contacted to be an in-person tech assistant, Steno will explicitly detail the scope of what you are needed for as a tech assistant.
- Refer to the Steno Equipment Reference Guide for Videographers for more information on the specific equipment that may be required for these jobs.
These procedures ensure a smooth, professional, and compliant complex case deposition.
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