Virtual Hearings

The process for your remote hearing will likely be similar to an in-person hearing in terms of the order of events during the hearing. For example, each party might be represented by a lawyer. Before you testify, you’d likely be sworn in by a bailiff or other court personnel. And if a translator is needed, the court should help to arrange for one to be in the remote hearing.

However, there will be some differences.  For example, you may be kept in a virtual “waiting room” until your case is called. If you have a lawyer, and you want to talk to them during the hearing, you may have to type them a message rather than being able to lean over to talk to them as you would in a courtroom. If you are calling in using audio only rather than using video conference software, you would not be able to see the other party, the judge, and any evidence the other party is offering. This may be difficult and put you at a great disadvantage.