This can be extremely handy when you are taking a remote deposition or scoping/proofreading your transcript. Through the app Duet Display you can convert your iPad into a second monitor, whether you use a Windows or a Mac computer as your primary computer. Simply download Duet Display onto your iPad for the cost of $9.99 and follow the set-up instructions to download onto your computer.  Then connect your iPad to your computer, change your display settings, and use your iPad screen as you see fit. I personally use it to view my Zoom meeting while I reference any documents being displayed on the full screen of my computer. This is also a great tool to suggest to clients if they express frustration when trying to view electronic exhibits and the videoconference at the same time. Here is an article walking you step-by-step through how to make your iPad a second screen (again, a wonderful resource to be able to forward to clients).

If you are unable to be heard during a deposition, then an external microphone is an easy and affordable solution. There are many varieties based on your needs, and they run anywhere from $20 to a couple hundred. The TONOR Conference USB Microphone works with both Mac and Windows as a “Plug and Play” device.  This means that there is no need to download software to use it. This is easy to just set up and go, but be aware that some of your computer’s audio settings may need to be adjusted.

If you are unable to hear participants clearly, getting a high-quality external speaker can make all the difference. Both the Bose SoundLink and the Bose SoundLink Mini are extremely high quality, compact, and affordable. They also connect to your computer or phone via Bluetooth, which means you’ll have one less thing to plug in for a deposition. These are a great option for telephonic depositions.

Zoom is constantly making updates to their program to introduce new features, fix bugs, and update current features. To stay up to date with all the changes Zoom is making, be sure to check for updates the night before or the morning of each Zoom session. Simply log in to your Zoom desktop app, select your initials in the top right-hand corner of the screen, and select “Check for Updates.” It will either let you know you are up to date or ask you if you would like to update. For more detailed instructions, please check out the Zoom Help Center.

It can be hard for parties to be one-hundred-percent sure when the proceeding is on or off the record while on Zoom. This is when having a sign in front of your camera to indicate when you are off the record comes in handy. It might even allow you a little time to get something done off-camera. Simply download Veritext’s “On/Off the Record” template, print onto sturdy paper, fold, and you are ready to go. To make it even more personalized, you can include your contact information, and even your picture.