CHECKLIST: TO PUSH RECORD OR NOT? YES NO FILMING Are there any advocacy reasons to record this testimony in addition to evidentiary reasons? Is it logistically easier to film the testimony rather than write it down? Is it safe to record a person’s identity (name, face, and voice)? Is it probable that the person can provide relevant information? Is this likely to be the only opportunity for someone to speak with this person? Does this person strike you as a credible and reliable witness? Is an on-camera interview likely to empower (rather than re-victimize) the person giving the testimony? Is the likelihood that contradictory testimony will later be given low? Is it possible to secure informed consent? (See details below.) Do I have the means to securely preserve this video footage? FOR MORE INFORMATION To learn more about lead evidence and other purposes video can serve in the pursuit of accountability, see “All About Evidence” at vae.witness.org. The decision to record an interview on camera is generally not an easy one. This is a decision you will need to make based on the information you have at the time. Ideally, you want to be able to answer “yes” to each of the above questions before choosing to press record. 147 VIDEO AS EVIDENCE: FILMING PRELIMINARY INTERVIEWS V 1.0