There might be different types of remote hearings offered depending on where you live. It is important to talk to your local court officials to make sure you understand how things will work in your case. A fully remote hearing generally means that the whole hearing will be online. Both parties, the judge, and any witnesses will appear via Zoom or some other court-approved program.

A hybrid remote hearing can mean different things in different places. In some states, “hybrid” might mean that the judge and one party appear in person, while the other party appears virtually. In other states, “hybrid” might mean that some parts of a case are held virtually, while other parts are held in person. In that situation, all of the parties would appear the same way. For example, in a custody case, a motion to continue might be heard virtually, and all parties would appear online. But then the final custody trial might be held in person, and all parties might have to appear in person.

In many situations, the court will determine whether your hearing is remote or in-person. If you have a choice, however, here are some things to think about as you are making your decision:

PROS

• Safety – you will not have to be in the same physical location as the abuser;
• Convenience – you might not need to take time off work, get a ride to court, or find childcare;
• Flexibility and timing - in some places, you may be allowed to schedule hearings at specific times, or within short time windows, instead of waiting at the courthouse all day for your case to be called;
• Access - witnesses, victims, experts, and other important people may be able to participate in your case even if they aren’t located in your area.

CONS

• Clarity – it can be harder for people who aren’t familiar with the court process to understand what is happening during remote proceedings;
• Communication – if there are any issues with internet connections or confusion about technology, it can be hard to communicate effectively. This may also make it harder for you to get your points across or understand what the judge or the other party is trying to say;
• Distractions – if you are paying attention to things going on around you or trying to get your technology to work, you may not be able to focus on the court hearing or participate effectively;
• Privacy – if there is no option for you to blur or alter your background, everyone in the hearing will be able to see directly into your home. In a custody case, for example, a judge could possibly be influenced by something s/he sees in your home.

El proceso para su audiencia virtual probablemente sea muy parecido al de una audiencia en persona, pero es posible que le mantengan en una sala de espera virtual hasta que llamen su caso. Si usted está llamando por teléfono en vez de usar un programa de vídeo conferencia, no poder ver a la otra parte o a el/la juez/a puede ser difícil. El orden de eventos y el procedimiento para realizar la audiencia normalmente se mantienen igual.

Hay algunas cosas que puede hacer para prepararse para su audiencia.

• Piense en cualquier documento o evidencia que usted quiera que el/la juez/a vea. Su evidencia puede incluir cualquier cosa que ayude a contar su historia (expedientes médicos, fotografías, mensajes de texto, historial telefónico, etc.). El/la juez/a decidirá cuál evidencia él/ella tiene permitido considerar bajo las reglas de evidencia de su estado. Es posible que usted deba someter toda la evidencia y los documentos a la corte antes de la audiencia, ya sea escaneando los documentos o tomándoles foto. La corte debe especificar cómo y cuándo usted debe someter los documentos.
• Tenga copias de los documentos con usted para que pueda referirse a los mismos fácilmente durante la audiencia.
• De ser posible, acomódese para su audiencia en un lugar donde no le molesten. Asegúrese que el equipo de sonido y vídeo que está usando esté funcionando correctamente.
• Su corte puede usar Zoom u otras plataformas (Skype, Webex) que requieran que usted baje algún software (programa) o aplicación para unirse a la reunión. Estas descargas son gratis pero asegúrese de descargar el programa con anticipación. Descargar estos programas puede tardar y usted no quiere estar tarde para su audiencia si espera a descargarlos justo antes de que comience la audiencia. La corte debe darle un enlace o número telefónico para unirse a la audiencia.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The court may conduct remote hearings through Zoom or other platforms (Skype, Webex, etc.) that require you to download software or install an app to join the meeting. The court should also provide you a link or phone number to join the hearing. The platform should be free but make sure to download or install it ahead of time. It may take time to fully download and you don’t want to be late to your hearing if you wait to do it until right before your hearing starts.
• If you need to create an account to use the platform, be sure to create it ahead of time and make sure you know your password.
• Try to test out the technology in advance. Make sure that you understand how to use the different features offered, and get help if you need it. The platform may have a “get help” section with a live chat option or phone number where you can ask questions.
• Think about your internet connection - some platforms use more bandwidth than others. Be sure your internet is still reliable while you use this platform.

Your goal is to be comfortable with the technology and the platform before the hearing begins. Virtual court is still court, and you do not want to miss what is happening because you are trying to get your technology to work. It is very important to be able to give your full attention to the hearing itself while it is going on.