Which file types are commonly exchanged during discovery between reporters and attorneys?

• A. Transcripts (PDF/Word/RTF), exhibit logs (PDF), and sometimes synchronized XML/E-Transcript files.
• B. Raw audio files only.
• C. Paper copies mailed to attorneys.
• D. Scanned image files only.

Answer: (A)

In discovery, the goal is to share a repairable, searchable record of what was said and what exhibits were involved. The typical exchange includes transcripts in formats that balance readability and editability—PDF for stable, easy distribution, and Word or RTF when attorneys need to edit or redline. Exhibit logs are usually provided as PDFs to give a consistent, printable list of referenced or admitted exhibits with their details. When available, synchronized XML or E-Transcript files attach time or event metadata to the transcript, making it possible to link text to the exact moments in the audio or video and to search efficiently.

Raw audio files alone aren’t ideal because they lack readable text and useful structure for quick review. Paper copies are impractical for fast digital review and large cases, while scanned image files alone don’t offer easy text searching or metadata. So the combination described—transcripts in editable and non-editable formats, exhibit logs in PDF, and optional synchronized XML/E-Transcript files—best supports efficient discovery review.