Legal Definitions - Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters

The Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters is an international agreement that was signed on October 26, 1968. The purpose of this convention is to establish procedures for obtaining evidence in a foreign country, such as taking a deposition abroad. This convention is important because it helps to ensure that evidence can be obtained from witnesses who are located in other countries.

For example, if a company in the United States is involved in a legal dispute with a company in France, the company in the United States may need to obtain evidence from witnesses who are located in France. The Hague Convention provides a framework for obtaining this evidence in a way that is legally recognized in both countries.

More than 27 countries are parties to the Hague Convention, including the United States. This means that these countries have agreed to follow the procedures outlined in the convention when obtaining evidence from witnesses who are located in other countries.