Advancing the Legal Video Profession
The American Guild of Court Videographers is one of the most recognized and respected organizations dedicated exclusively to the legal video profession. Our mission is simple: to advance the standards, skills, and success of the professionals who capture the record that the legal system depends on. Whether you are just exploring the field or are a seasoned legal videographer looking to sharpen your expertise, the AGCV is your professional home.
The legal video profession sits at the intersection of technology and justice. Deposition videographers, evidentiary videographers, and trial technology specialists play a critical role in preserving sworn testimony, presenting evidence, and supporting the administration of law. Their work demands technical precision, procedural knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to accuracy and impartiality. The AGCV supports professionals across this entire career path — from those taking their first steps into the field to veterans who want to expand into new specialties or grow their business. We do this through three core pillars:
Our on-demand courses cover every aspect of the legal video profession, from the rules governing deposition video to capturing testimony in person and remotely, encoding and delivering finished video, and growing your business. Courses are available whenever you are — no schedules, no waiting.
The AGCV offers three professional certifications that demonstrate your knowledge, professionalism, and commitment to the field:
CDVS — Certified Deposition Video Specialist
CEVS — Certified Evidentiary Video Specialist
CTTS — Certified Trial Technology Specialist
Legal videography can be an isolating profession. The AGCV brings practitioners together through member forums where you can ask questions, share workflows, discuss equipment, and connect with colleagues who understand the unique demands of this work. Members-only forums go deeper, offering a private space for candid business discussions and peer support.
AGCV membership gives you access to resources built specifically for legal video professionals:
Online Training — Access certification courses, continuing education, and skills training on demand, at your own pace
Members-Only Forums — Connect with peers in private community spaces covering business, equipment, software, and more
Tools & Forms — Download professionally developed templates, workflows, and best-practice documents to streamline your operations
Marketing Resources — Access digital certificates, AGCV logos, marketing templates, and promotional materials to demonstrate your credentials to clients
Exclusive Discounts — Receive 25% off non-certification training, discounts on AGCV-sponsored events, access to recorded webinars and Q&A sessions, and group deals on gear
Directory Listing — Certified members are listed in the searchable AGCV Directory, connecting you with attorneys and firms looking for qualified professionals in their area Membership is open to anyone interested in the legal video field — whether you are a working professional, a court reporter expanding your services, or someone brand new to the industry.
The legal video profession offers multiple specialties and a clear progression for those who want to grow. The AGCV's curriculum is built around this natural career path: Starting with Deposition Video, practitioners learn to capture sworn testimony, understand the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and deliver recordings that meet strict legal standards. From there, professionals can expand into Evidentiary Video — capturing evidence in the field, at accident scenes, or in other non-deposition contexts. Those who want to work directly in the courtroom can pursue Trial Technology, mastering the presentation of video and evidence to judges and juries. The AGCV has courses and certifications for each of these specialties, and our GROW curriculum helps members at every level build the business skills to succeed and scale.
The legal system relies on accurate, trustworthy records. Courts have recognized that professional videographers — not just anyone with a camera — are required to ensure the objectivity, consistency, and accuracy of deposition recordings. AGCV-certified professionals hold themselves to the same standard of professionalism and impartiality expected of certified court reporters. We take this responsibility seriously. Every certification program includes written examination and practical assessment. Our Code of Ethics governs member conduct. And our training is developed around industry best practices and the actual rules that govern legal proceedings.