English
Español¿Qué tipo de tecnología necesito para una audiencia virtual?
Para unirse a la audiencia a través de vídeo conferencia, necesitará un dispositivo que se pueda conectar al Internet. Tenga en cuenta que es posible que necesite una computadora, tableta o teléfono que tenga una cámara que funcione. Si usted está usando un celular que tiene una cantidad limitada de minutos, verifique que tenga suficientes minutos disponibles. Tenga en cuenta la duración de la batería del dispositivo. Mantenga los electrónicos conectados a un cargador, de ser posible. Las cortes saben que muchas personas pueden necesitar ayuda para participar de una audiencia virtual, pero usted debe dejarles saber si necesita asistencia. Debe comunicarle a la corte cualquier acomodo o necesidad que usted tenga debido a cualquier discapacidad que pueda tener.
What do I need to know about the platform I will be using?
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.
What do I need to know about the language interpretation or closed captioning features?
If your primary language isn’t English, find out whether the court will be using a live interpreter or if you have to use the interpretation features included on the virtual hearing platform. If the court is using the platform’s interpretation features, test the features out ahead of time if you can. Are there different options available if you download the app versus logging in through your web browser?
If you need to use the closed captioning feature because you are hard of hearing or for any other reason, make sure you know how to turn it on. If possible, try testing it out with a friend or family member to see if the captions are high quality and to make sure that it works.
For both features, language interpretation and closed captioning, you will want to be comfortable using them before your hearing begins.
