Key Takeaway
Learn when NY courts allow remote depositions for international parties. Key 2011 precedent for Long Island & NYC attorneys handling overseas witnesses.
When litigation involves parties residing overseas, particularly in countries like China, the question of whether depositions can be conducted remotely becomes critically important. A landmark 2011 case from New York’s Second Department provides crucial guidance for attorneys handling personal injury and other civil matters involving international witnesses or parties.
Understanding Remote Deposition Rights in New York
The legal landscape surrounding remote depositions has evolved significantly, especially for cases involving international parties. For Long Island and New York City attorneys, understanding when courts will grant protective orders for remote electronic depositions can make the difference between a successful case and unnecessary hardship for clients.
Yu Hui Chen v Chen Li Zhi, 2011 NY Slip Op 01267 (2d Dept. 2011)
“Here, the Supreme Court improvidently exercised its discretion in denying the plaintiff’s cross motion for a protective order pursuant to CPLR 3103(a) directing that his deposition be conducted by remote electronic means. The plaintiff demonstrated that traveling from China to the United States for his deposition would cause undue hardship”
The Legal Framework: CPLR 3103(a) and Protective Orders
What Constitutes “Undue Hardship”?
New York’s Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) Section 3103(a) provides courts with broad discretion to issue protective orders limiting discovery when appropriate. In the Chen case, the Second Department established important precedent regarding what constitutes sufficient hardship to warrant remote deposition procedures.
The court recognized that international travel, particularly from China to the United States, can create substantial financial and logistical burdens. For personal injury clients who may already be dealing with medical expenses and lost wages, the additional cost of international travel for depositions can be prohibitive.
Key Factors Courts Consider
When evaluating requests for remote depositions, New York courts typically examine:
- Geographic distance and travel costs
- Health conditions of the deponent
- Visa and immigration requirements
- Language barriers and need for interpreters
- Time zone differences affecting scheduling
- Technology availability and reliability
Practical Applications for Long Island and NYC Cases
Personal Injury Cases with International Elements
Long Island and New York City see numerous cases involving international parties, whether they’re tourists injured in accidents, residents who’ve moved abroad, or cases involving international companies. Understanding how to properly request remote depositions can be crucial for case success.
Common scenarios include:
- Motor vehicle accidents involving foreign nationals
- Slip and fall cases with witnesses who’ve returned overseas
- Medical malpractice cases where treating physicians have relocated internationally
- Product liability cases requiring testimony from overseas manufacturers
Strategic Considerations for Attorneys
When representing clients in cases with international elements, attorneys should:
- Document hardship thoroughly – Provide specific evidence of financial, medical, or logistical challenges
- Propose reasonable alternatives – Suggest video conferencing platforms and scheduling accommodations
- Address opposing counsel’s concerns – Anticipate arguments about authentication and cross-examination limitations
- Consider local rules – Different judicial districts may have varying approaches to remote depositions
Technology and Modern Deposition Practice
Evolution Since 2011
The Chen decision was rendered in 2011, when video conferencing technology was less sophisticated and widely available than today. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated acceptance of remote proceedings, making courts more receptive to electronic deposition requests.
Modern considerations include:
- High-definition video quality ensuring clear observation of witness demeanor
- Secure platforms protecting attorney-client privilege
- Real-time transcript services
- Document sharing capabilities during examination
- Recording and authentication protocols
Best Practices for Remote Depositions
Successful remote depositions require careful preparation:
- Test technology in advance with all participants
- Establish clear protocols for objections and breaks
- Ensure proper lighting and audio for all participants
- Have backup communication methods available
- Coordinate with court reporters familiar with remote proceedings
Implications for Different Types of Cases
No-Fault Insurance Claims
In New York’s no-fault system, expeditious resolution of claims is paramount. When medical providers or accident victims have relocated internationally, remote depositions can prevent unnecessary delays in benefit determinations.
Commercial Litigation
Business disputes often involve parties across multiple jurisdictions. The Chen precedent supports requests for remote depositions when international business partners or key witnesses are located overseas.
Family Law Matters
Custody and divorce cases sometimes involve parties who’ve moved internationally. Remote depositions can facilitate resolution while minimizing travel burdens on families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can any party request a remote deposition if they’re located overseas?
A: Not automatically. The party must demonstrate “undue hardship” as established in Chen v. Chen. Courts retain discretion to evaluate each request individually.
Q: What if the opposing party objects to remote depositions?
A: Courts will balance the requesting party’s hardship against the opposing party’s right to effective cross-examination. Strong documentation of hardship improves success chances.
Q: Are remote depositions binding in the same way as in-person depositions?
A: Yes, when properly conducted under court supervision, remote depositions carry the same legal weight as traditional depositions.
Q: How do authentication issues get resolved in remote depositions?
A: Courts may require additional protocols for document authentication, witness identification, and ensuring no coaching occurs off-camera.
Q: Can remote depositions be used in jury trials?
A: Yes, properly authenticated remote deposition testimony can be presented to juries, though some courts may require advance notice or special jury instructions.
Working with Experienced New York Attorneys
Cases involving international parties and remote depositions require attorneys familiar with both New York civil procedure and the practical challenges of cross-border litigation. The Law Office of Jason Tenenbaum has extensive experience handling complex personal injury and civil matters involving international elements.
Our team understands the nuances of CPLR 3103(a) protective orders and has successfully obtained remote deposition orders for clients facing genuine hardship. We work with clients throughout Long Island and New York City to ensure their rights are protected regardless of geographic challenges.
Don’t let distance prevent you from obtaining the testimony you need for your case. Contact our experienced legal team today at 516-750-0595 to discuss your options for remote depositions and protective orders.
Whether you’re dealing with witnesses in China, Europe, or elsewhere internationally, we have the knowledge and resources to help you navigate New York’s discovery procedures effectively. Our commitment to client service means we’ll work with you to find practical solutions that protect your interests while complying with all applicable court rules and procedures.
Related Articles
- NY EBT Venue Rules: When Courts Grant Undue Hardship Exceptions for Depositions
- Appellate Term holds CPLR 3212(f) relief is inappropriate under three separate circumstances
- EBT procedural requirements in no-fault cases
- Attorney objections during non-party depositions
- New York No-Fault Insurance Law
Legal Update (February 2026): The legal landscape for remote depositions has undergone substantial transformation since this 2011 post, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic which accelerated adoption of virtual proceedings. Court rules and procedures governing electronic depositions, including amendments to CPLR provisions and new administrative orders from the Office of Court Administration, have significantly expanded when and how remote depositions may be conducted. Practitioners should verify current court rules and local administrative orders, as many jurisdictions have implemented permanent changes to remote deposition procedures that extend well beyond the emergency measures initially adopted during the pandemic.
