Court admissible Video

[scottatbhm]

Hi, I've got a new job coming up where I'll be conducting video surveillance and there is a high probability the video (HV20} will be needed to support prosecution. I'm a disinterested third party, but is there anything I can do to ensure the video is accepted by the court? Thanks, Kevin

[koolpenguin89]

No offense, but i think you'll get more responses on a law forum. Also, in order to answer your question we'll need more info. For example, where are you? Laws differ from country to country, state to state, city to city.

Dylan

[scottatbhm]

Hi Dylan, no offense taken. I'm in Birmingham, AL, USA. I was thinking in terms of watermarks or embedded info that might be more technical in nature. Kevin

[Duke]

a) show the correct date and time.

b) lock the tapes up in a secure place when not in use and keep a log of checking them in and out. (That's called documenting the chain of custody.)

c) while shooting write notes at every break. At the end of the day immediately write a narrative report of who, what, where and when for each shot. (Because you won't remember it all a couple of years later.) Typically you follow for an hour or two, tape for a few minutes and follow again.

d) If you're going to tape witnesses you want to be a notary and swear people in but that's probably beyond what you want. That can be very important if someone won't be available later one, such as due to illness.

e) be prepared to testify and show your video in court or depostions. Understand that you will be questioned and the opposition WILL try to discredit you.

Oh, and some states require you have an investigator's license, and others just that you work for an investigator. BTW, don't trespass.

Duke

[Skatervideoguy]

Hi scottatbhm,

Are you going to be moving about (chasing), or will you be stationary, only recording from a single place ??

Harold

[scottatbhm]

Thanks Duke, those are some good thoughts.

Skater, fixed location.

Kevin

[Skatervideoguy]

Hi Kevin,

Will you have access to AC power ?? Or large battery power ?

Also, how long will each Video session be ??

Harold

[Islandervideo]

Ignore the title-some good info, hope it helps.

http://www.crime-scene-investigator....ofdigital.html