MI HB4647

Permits expert witnesses to testify at trial via video communication equipment if the court determines the testimony will assist the trier of fact and the witness is qualified, with consent of all parties.

Requires verbatim records of video testimony to be taken in the same manner as in-person testimony.

Mandates written motion submitted at least 7 days before trial for parties seeking to present expert testimony by video, unless good cause is shown to waive the requirement.

Requires the party initiating video communication equipment use to pay the associated costs, unless the court directs otherwise.

Takes effect June 1, 2012 and applies only to actions filed on or after that date.