Texas courts started having virtual hearings last spring due to COVID-19, but even after the pandemic virtual hearings might continue in some cases. Remote hearings after the pandemic can be beneficial to court efficiency and allow for increased access to the courts. Additionally, judges have reported they are seeing greater participation from litigants during remote hearings. Since remote hearings may stick around in certain cases, it is important for individuals to understand how to prepare for them. In general, you should treat a remote hearing the same way you would treat an in-person hearing.
Tips for Remote Hearing
- Test your internet speed, video, and sound before the call.
- Be on time
- Make sure you join the call with Audio and Video
- Dress how you would for a regular court appearance. Do not wear shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, or hats.
- Turn on your video and choose a neutral background that is not distracting.
- Position your camera at eye level and look at the camera when you speak.
- Keep yourself muted until it is your time to speak.
- Watch remote court hearings beforehand so you know what to expect.
- A list of Texas Court Live Streams can be found here: http://streams.txcourts.gov/
Written by: Sydney Hope, 3L