Court Reporting and Depositions in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is often used as the location for depositions of willing witnesses from China, since depositions in China are not permitted. Depositions of voluntary witnesses in Hong Kong do not necessitate government involvement and are straightforward using the Planet Depos checklist. Allow enough time (ideally, 2 to 3 weeks) for scheduling due to associated logistical challenges. Counsel will determine whether the witness is willing to be deposed. If so, both parties can stipulate and begin the process of setting up the deposition.

If the witness is unwilling to be deposed and must be compelled to testify, a letter rogatory is required. For more information, visit the International Judicial Assistance Website for the Bureau of Consular Affairs.

1. Determine the Planet Depos services needed:
   • U.S.-trained court reporter
   • U.S.-trained legal videographer
   • Mandarin or Cantonese interpreter
   • Local exhibit printing, delivery and shredding
   • Conference rooms
2. If not participating in person, do you require videoconferencing services? (If not, please skip to the next item on the checklist)
   • Do you need a location in Hong Kong?
   • Will you need a location in the United States?
   • Can you attend from your firm’s videoconference suite?
   • Do you need assistance with exhibit printing, document production, or other services abroad?
   • Ask about Planet Depos’ mobile videoconferencing capabilities
3. Select your deposition date, starting time and ending time. (Remember to note time zone!)
   • Notice of deposition
   • Answer to Complaint
   • Previous transcript(s)
   • Word index
4. Provide contact information for counsel who will be attending, such as hotel or cell phone number
5. Travel safely to Hong Kong and contact Planet Depos with any questions once you’ve arrived!

Entry Requirements for Hong Kong

To enter Hong Kong from the United States, it is recommended you have an original, signed passport that is valid for six months beyond your stay. Make sure there are at least two blank visa pages available for any necessary stamp(s).

Proof of onward/return travel is required to enter Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Visas
Neither a tourist visa nor a business visa is required for American visitors to enter Hong Kong for stays under 90 days.

Flying to Hong Kong

The following airport accepts international flights from North America:

• Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Travel Advisories
For updated travel alerts and information, please visit the U.S. Consulate of Hong Kong and Macau website.

Travel in Hong Kong

Most depositions in Hong Kong take place in Central Hong Kong and Wan Chai as they are heavily dominated by businesses. Planet Depos can assist in reserving a room at one of our partner hotels.

Medical Information for Hong Kong

Generally, there are some modern medical facilities in Hong Kong, predominantly in the business district, which is very English-friendly. For a list of local speaking doctors, please contact the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers.

Money Matters

The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). U.S. credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted at most of the hotels, restaurants and retail shops in Hong Kong. However, smaller establishments may not accept them, which is why it’s also a good idea to carry a bit of cash. There are many ATMs around the city, and most accept U.S. debit cards. There are also currency exchange locations around Hong Kong. It is advisable to locate an exchange that is accredited.

For up-to-date information on the local conversion rate, please visit a reputable currency converter website such as OANDA, which also provides an app for smartphones.

Weather

Hong Kong is one of the few countries in Asia that has four distinct seasons. Winters are usually cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging between 61°-66°. The spring is sometimes unpredictable but can bring a lot of rain. The average temperature during the spring is often in the 70s. The summer months in Hong Kong are hot and extremely humid with temperatures in the high 80s. Autumn is the most pleasant as the temperature drops to the low 70s, offering a comfortable time for outdoor activity.

Voltage Information for Hong Kong

The voltage in Hong Kong is 220. The devices below are commonly built to accommodate 110/220 dual voltage; HOWEVER be sure to double check all of your electrical equipment (anything that plugs into a wall) to make sure it is dual voltage.

• Cell phone chargers
• Laptops
• iPads
• Stenographic machines (used by court reporters)

It is important not to confuse plug adapters with voltage. You cannot plug any 110-voltage equipment — even with a plug adapter on it – into a 220v outlet. You need either 110-220 (dual voltage) equipment or a transformer to convert from 110 to 220.

Bring Hong Kong plug adapters with you. If you should run short, ask your hotel or one of our Planet Depos team members in Hong Kong to provide you with some loaners.

Finally, if any of your plugs have a “ground” (a third prong on the plug), you will need a 3-2 prong adapter as well.

The above adapters are available for purchase at various electronic websites and stores.

Planet Depos Travel Tip: Buy extras adapters and keep them in your bag for backup!