How to Document a Phone Conversation

By Erick Kristian

Recording a conversation can be done using applications on smart phones.
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Documenting a phone conversation can be very useful for providing evidence in business deals, criminal matters or even customer support training. According to Reporters' Committee for Freedom of the Press, in an article from the website entitled "Can We Tape," the law states that one may record a conversation of which they are a part, even without the other party's consent, but not any conversations in which they are not a part. The exception is in 12 states: California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Washington. In these states, all parties must know they are being recorded.

Write the conversation down. Simply takes notes with a pen and paper or on the computer during the conversation. Record the important points and record the date and time of the call and who it was with. These notes can be admissible in legal proceedings, if necessary.

Use a phone recorder. A phone recorder is a small device which connects to the telephone and records the call whenever the line is engaged. Devices like this can cost as little as twenty dollars and as much as several hundred dollars, depending on the level of sophistication of the device. They are available at some electronics stores, most surveillance and spy shops and online.

Install a smart-phone application an use it. Many smart phones and voice-over Internet Provider (voIP) phones have a built-in record call feature. Engage this feature when the call will be recorded.

Use a digital recorder or microphone. A digital voice recorder or microphone connected to a computer or recorder easily captures the conversation from a speaker phone. A voice recorder is not that expensive and readily available at most electronic stores. A computer microphone can cost as little as a few dollars and easily record a phone call.

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