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Zoom Hearings

ZoomGov Hearing access is for participants of the case only and not for public access.

Technology Requirements

  • Devices 

    • Computer (laptop or desktop), tablet, or smartphone with Zoom desktop application or app installed. Telephone for audio only participation.

    • Make sure your device is connected to power.

  • Internet access

    • You need a stable internet connection. You can verify that your internet connection is good at:  https://www.pcworld.com/article/2048594/how-to-test-your-home-internet-speed.html. 

    • Connection via a hard-wire Ethernet cable will always be faster and more reliable than WiFi.

    • Free public Wi-Fi does NOT offer the stability and strength required to participate in a Zoom hearing.

    • Do not join in a moving vehicle—internet connectivity may affect your Zoom connection.

  • Camera & microphone 

    • Laptops, tablets, and smartphones have these tools integrated into the device.

    • Desktop computers must be paired with external microphones and cameras that have been tested prior to the hearing.

  • Technical Support

    • The court will not provide technical support for Zoom attendees. Please contact the Zoom Help Center, your local IT support, or other online guidance.

Zoom Hearing Best Practices

  • Joining Zoom hearing

    • Be sure to join the hearing before the start time.  If you arrive late, you may end up waiting longer in the Waiting Room.

    • Verify that your screen name is your real name. The Court cannot recognize you in the waiting room and move you to the courtroom when your identity is unrecognizable.

  • Audio\Video

    • Test your audio.

    • Test your video.

    • Turn off all other audio disruptions (phones, messaging alerts, email alerts, etc.)

    • Know how to mute your voice by clicking on the microphone icon. If there is a red line through the microphone you are muted and cannot be heard by the people in the meeting. When it is your turn to speak, you will need to unmute yourself by clicking the microphone.

    • Do not speak over anyone and do not interrupt anyone. 

  • Location

    • Select a location that is relatively quiet and manageable.  Cell phones should be muted, doors to rooms closed and disruptions minimized.

    • Be aware of the background behind you as it will be seen by the Judge and others attending the hearing. 

    • Don’t sit directly in front of or behind a window as the light or reflection can affect the video.

    • If you use Virtual Backgrounds, select something neutral in color.

  • Testing/Practicing

    • Run a quick test to connect with another Zoom user, or use the Zoom test:
      https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115002262083-Joining-a-test-meeting

    • The court will use the audio and video functionality of Zoom, but other functions such as screen sharing, etc., may be allowed by the judge for participants. All participants must be familiar with all the Zoom functions and should practice prior to their proceeding.

  • Recording/Photographs/Reproductions

    • Any recording of a court proceeding held by video or teleconference, including “screen-shots” or other audio or visual copying of a hearing, is absolutely prohibited. Violation of these prohibitions may result in sanctions, restricted entry to future hearings, denial of entry to future hearings, or any other sanctions deemed necessary by the court.

Learning Resources