FAQ
These are the answers to some of the most common questions asked about our software and services at Lightning Law.
Can I use Lightning Law for Hearings, Arbitrations, and Trials?
Yes, but our current interface will still call it a “deposition.” We are working on tailoring our platform specifically for these other uses, with appropriate naming and secure breakout rooms. Stay tuned as we continue to improve.
Are you trying to replace Court Reporters with Voice to Text?
No. Court reporters are the guardians of the record. We see Court Reporters as essential neutrals who must be in control of the record at each deposition, transcribed hearing, or trial. Only people can swear in people. Only people can accurately see, hear, and transcribe what people say. We created Lightning Law to make a Court Reporter’s job easier and to ensure that they are paid faster.
Why do you need my credit card information?
We only need your credit card information if you are the one scheduling the deposition or hearing, or if you are ordering a video or transcript. Before Lightning Law, court reporters could wait a very long time before they were paid. We designed our system to make sure they’re immediately paid for their time. Our system allows us to see exactly how long each deposition lasts and who orders the transcript, ensuring fast and accurate payment to court reporters, and efficient delivery to you.
Who starts and stops each deposition?
The Court Reporter is currently the only participant who has the ability to start, stop, and pause a deposition. However, while you are transitioning into remote depositions with Lightning Law, we are temporarily able to provide a trained representative at your scheduled deposition to start, stop, and pause the recordings as needed. To learn more about this option, please email us. Court Reporters can also request support from a trained representative within the app.
Can anyone else see which documents I have uploaded or my deposition outline?
No. Your deposition outline is not shareable. Your documents are also private until you choose to share them or until you ask the Court Reporter to mark them as exhibits.
How do I pay for the video and appearance fee and deposition transcript?
Appearance fees are charged right after the completion of a deposition based on the court reporter's hourly rate times the length of the deposition. We require each Taking Attorney to upload a credit card to the system to ensure that the court reporter is paid accurately and within a timely manner.
To purchase a video or transcript after the deposition is completed, as long as you have a credit card uploaded to our system, you can order both the video (for $50) and the court reporter's transcript by a simple click of a button.
How secure is the deposition and my documents?
We offer the gold standard in video security. We use the same video platform chosen by the World Bank and government organizations. Our video security features include:
- Session Access Control
- Encryption at rest
- Digital Rights Management
- Forensic Watermarking
- Compliance with Video Security Regulation ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and ISO 27799:2008
- Data centers are SSAE 16/ SOC 2 certified