Device and method for selective recall and preservation of events prior to decision to record the events

A device and process for event-activated recording generally includes the steps of providing an acquisition buffer having at least one finite extent of a recording medium. Events are recorded in the acquisition buffer. Current events in place of earlier events are then recorded within the acquisition buffer. Action by the user or triggering system activates the preservation of all or part of the record of the most recent events recorded in the acquisition buffer upon the detection of one or more predetermined events. A portion of the record of events selected by the user is preserved by reserving a portion of the record of events from being overwritten by other events, and/or by transferring the selected portions of the record of events to a predetermined permanent location. Portable devices and applications to the recording telephone conversations are also disclosed, particularly a method of producing a record of a telephone conversation on the consent of appropriate parties, which consent may be secured before, during or after such conversation.