Remote Hearings & Virtual Court Etiquette

A virtual hearing is still a hearing. Treat the technology and the etiquette as seriously as the case.

Test the tech

Test the platform two days ahead on the exact device and network you'll use, favor a wired connection, and keep a backup device logged in and muted for a fast reconnect. Have the clerk's phone number handy.

Set the scene

Choose a quiet space with a neutral background and good lighting, put the camera at eye level, dress as you would for court, and arrange childcare elsewhere. Use headphones, mute when silent, and pause briefly before answering to account for lag.

Exhibits and settling

Combine your exhibits into one bookmarked, labeled PDF (Income, Insurance, etc.), submit it by the deadline, and only screen-share the specific window when authorized — never your whole desktop. If you settle, ask the judge to adopt the stipulation on the record, confirm who drafts the order and the payment start date, and request a same-day emailed minute order.

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