Three credentials, mapped to the legal video career path.
AGCV is the only certifying body in the U.S. that issues credentials across the full litigation lifecycle — depositions (CDVS), evidence (CEVS), and courtroom presentation (CTTS). Pick the one that fits, or take the free Career Path course first.
Each credential is the proof you can do one of the three.
Each pillar has the same shape: a free 101 course (what you need to know), a masterclass (how to do it), and a credential (what you earn at the end).
AGCV is the only multi-track credential in the profession.
There's one other recognized certification in the U.S. — and it covers depositions only.
| AGCV | NCRA CLVS | Accurate Vision | Cypress College | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deposition certification | CDVS | CLVS (only credential offered) | "Accurate Certified Deposition Videographer" | Included in 18.5-unit certificate |
| Evidentiary video credential | CEVS | — | — | — |
| Trial technology credential | CTTS | — | — | — |
| Free intro path | LVCP — 16 lessons | — | — | — |
| Format | Online, self-paced + live community | Online seminar + in-person production exam (Reston, VA, twice/year) | Training tied to staffing network | Academic, in-person at Cypress, CA |
| Professional community | Yes — directory, forum | Through NCRA membership | Calendar / staffing pool | Alumni network |
| Geographic limits | None | Production exam in Reston, VA only | U.S. + select international | Cypress, CA — in-person required |
How the credentials fit together
If you're new to legal video, start with the Legal Video Career Path — it's free, it covers the litigation lifecycle, and it gives you the vocabulary you need before you walk into your first deposition.
From there, almost everyone earns the CDVS first. It's the foundation credential and the one that gets you booked.
CEVS and CTTS are specialty credentials. CEVS opens up evidence work — site inspections, day-in-the-life shoots, drone documentation. CTTS opens up the courtroom — trial presentation, transcript sync, hot-seat work at hearings and trials.
Most working members hold one or two. A small number of veterans hold all three — that's the full litigation-lifecycle credential set, and it's a meaningful differentiator on the firm side.
What's required of every credential holder
- Coursework completion + passing assessment
- Adherence to the AGCV Code of Ethics
- Active membership in good standing
- Continuing education to maintain the credential
Ready to start?
The Legal Video Career Path is free. Sixteen lessons, self-paced. The fastest way to find out whether legal video is for you.