Italy is famed for her contributions to art throughout the ages (the David, the Sistine Chapel, the Mona Lisa, to name but a few), as well as her savory cuisine and the hospitality of her people.  Italy’s natural beauty, from Capri’s magnificent Blue Grotto to the Appenines running down central Italy from North to South, beckons to travelers around the world.  Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan are all favorite tourist destinations, historical treasure troves of gorgeous architecture representative of every major artistic movement.  Italy is certainly a destination high on many bucket lists.

Perhaps it is business that brings you to Italy – the home of a witness that you need to depose?

Voluntary depositions may be taken of willing witnesses in Italy, either on notice or pursuant to a court order before any United States Consular Officer.  According to the U.S. State Department’s site, consular involvement is optional for all depositions taking place in Italy.  See U.S. State Dept – Depositions in Italy for additional information regarding consular involvement in depositions in Italy.  It is always wise to check this site when you are scheduling a deposition abroad, as it has vital information pertaining to the legality of taking depositions in different countries.

A consular officer of the U.S. or a private attorney can take the voluntary deposition of a U.S. citizen in Italy without prior permission.  A U.S. consular officer or a private attorney can take the voluntary deposition of an Italian or third-country national, but would first have to secure the permission of the Court of Appeals with jurisdiction over the deponent.  Depositions can be taken at the U.S. Embassy in Rome or appropriate U.S. consulate (see U.S. Embassy – Rome to make arrangements), or at another location, such as a law office or hotel.

You should be able to rely on your court reporting firm to reserve a conference room for you at a hotel, if needed, and also to recommend a hotel for your own accommodations.  Rome or Florence can comfortably host your depositions — with luxurious hotels, to say nothing of sensational dining options.  Both cities burst with tourist attractions, and are easily accessible through international airports.  Both are also quite walkable (but watch out for motorists!).  In fact, it is highly recommended that you avoid the metro in Rome, as Rome’s pickpockets are notoriously sly and the metro is a favorite spot for them.