In a previous three-part blog, we covered the intricate process of scheduling depositions in Japan.  As outlined in that blog, depositions in Japan can be taken in two locations only: the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, or the U.S. Consulate in Osaka.

There are several important steps to be followed when scheduling depositions at the U.S. Consulate.  The first major detail to be considered is the Court Order.  It is required to list on the Court Order all potential deposition attendees who are not residents of Japan to ensure they can obtain Deposition Visas.  Any such person without a Deposition Visa will be denied entry to the Consulate, and there are no exceptions.  This includes all counsel, interpreters, and corporate representatives.  All names must be listed exactly as they appear on their passports.  If you are taking depositions in an ITC matter or in front of another Administrative Court, your recommendation must be taken to the District Court, who will issue the Japan Deposition Commission.

Once you have the Court Order, a certified copy with the original seal must be sent to the Consulate to hold your conference room reservation.  This must be sent six weeks prior to the deposition, along with the statutory deposition fees ($309.00 per hour), payable by international money order or certified bank check made out to the U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe.

Two weeks prior to the deposition, the $1,283.00 reservation fee must be paid, using the same guidelines as the statutory fees payment.  Additionally, this is when you need to apply for Deposition Visas for all applicable members of your team.

Two weeks prior to the deposition, you must send to the Consulate a list of all participants in the deposition.  You are also required send a list of all electronic equipment, including the owner of the equipment, as well as the make, model, and serial number.  Any equipment that does not appear on the list received and approved by the Consulate will not be permitted into the building.