Is Zoom the "new normal" for courthouse proceedings? Love it or hate it, Zoom may be here to stay. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all aware that the standard procedures we once knew and were accustomed to abruptly changed. We were all introduced to the virtual court room. Zoom is a useful tool that has helped the wheels of justice continue to spin as we navigate this novel experience.
At REESE & ESCOBAR LLP, we are versed in the ins and outs of the Zoom court room. With time, we have learned the do's and don'ts associated with attorney and client attendance in the virtual court room.
To better equip our clients here is our list:
DOs
Attend the hearing ON TIME, remember this is an official court room proceeding;
Wear clothing and make it appropriate, remember this is an official court room proceeding;
Attend with audio and video connection, connecting prior to your case being called;
Test the meeting ID prior to the hearing time;
Mute your audio when it is not your case, remember this is an official court room proceeding and everyone can hear what you are saying and doing;
Be respectful of other people’s time, this is not the time or place to speak privately with your attorney for extended periods of time
DON’Ts
Show up late;
Miss your court date completely, the Judge will issue a warrant for your arrest;
Take the phone/computer to the bathroom with you, we can see and hear everything;
Use inappropriate or offensive language, remember we can see and hear everything;
Wear inappropriate or offensive clothing
Our knowledge of Zoom and “the new normal” is continually growing. For convenience, here's a list of step-by-step zoom instructions to help assist with how to properly connect to Zoom for your next court appointment. We hope this helps you better prepare for what to expect in our should you find yourself in a virtual courtroom. Reese & Escobar are embracing the "new normal" and are here to serve you!
Sincerely,
Reese & Escobar LLP