Online Court Case Hearing Information and Tips

Published 07/30/20 –

Just about every kind of court case is moving online. Whether you are a lawyer or a party, here are a few quick tips to prepare yourself for the upcoming hearing:

1. Test the program and connection in advance – even if you’ve used the system before. Software updates can take even experienced Zoom or WebEx users off-guard, and you do not want to find out you don’t have yourself set up properly only a few moments before the hearing starts.
2. Log in at least fifteen minutes in advance. Prepare your workspace at least thirty minutes in advance.
3. Make sure you’ve noted any alternate call-in numbers, meeting IDs, passwords, etc. on a piece of paper in front of you just in case your computer decides to install a software update when you’re trying to log in to your hearing.
4. Dress appropriately for court. The judge is going to be attired professionally and will expect the same of all participants.
5. Lawyers may want to consider using an external microphone and possibly a ring light to ensure they can be easily heard and seen by the judge.
6. Questions, contact your lawyer a few days in advance to ensure you are ready for your court hearing.