Remote Courtroom Etiquette

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Even though you are not physically present in court, you are appearing remotely, and the same rules and formalities apply.

  • Be on time.
  • Identify yourself by your name and case number.  Unidentified participants are often the last to be called.
  • Dress respectfully.  Attorneys are expected to appear in clothing appropriate for a courtroom,  for men this includes a jacket and tie.  Dressing inappropriately is disrespectful to the judge, the other participants, and it demeans the dignity of the judicial process. 
  • Log in from an appropriate location.  Eliminate distractions.  Utilize a quiet area where you can hear, be heard, and not be interrupted by others.
  • During your remote appearance, do not use tobacco or vaping products and do not eat or drink.  Although appearing remotely,  your image is being broadcast into the courtroom. 
  • Wait to be called upon – be patient.  If you have been admitted to the meeting, the judge is aware that your case still needs to be called, even if you are in the waiting room.
  • Appearing remotely is a privilege, not a right.  If technical difficulties prevent you from connecting to a meeting, or from hearing or being heard during a remote appearance, the judge may elect to treat you as if you failed to appear in court.