Tips for Your Virtual Family Court Hearing

Due to the ever-present dangers associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more court hearings are happening virtually these days. These are still relatively new endeavors for court officials and attorneys, and everyone has had to sort of grow more comfortable in the virtual setting together throughout the last year.

Here are a few tips to help you make sure your virtual hearing goes as smoothly as possible.

• Get your hardware in order: You’ll need the proper technology to be able to participate in the virtual hearing. You should have a strong internet connection, and a computer capable of handling the streaming software. It’s not recommended you use a phone, as you’ll have a limited view of what’s happening. If your hardware or internet is not sufficient at home, consider going to your attorney’s office or to another location.
• Make sure you know the rules: Just because you’re not actually in court doesn’t mean court rules aren’t still in effect. You still need to be prepared for all the paperwork exchanges and questioning that would happen in person. You are not allowed to record the hearing without permission, or to have other people on the call without permission.
• Have an attorney communication plan: How will you communicate with your attorney during the hearing? Will you text, or call each other during breaks? Will you break out into private chats on the streaming video platform? Make sure you and your attorney go over this before the hearing begins.
• Conduct yourself professionally: Even if you’re logging into the hearing from the comfort of your home, you should still do your best to act like you’re in court. Dress professionally, turn off the television, keep children and pets out of the room, eliminate distractions and be cordial and polite throughout the hearing.

These are just a few examples of issues to consider so you can get the most out of your virtual hearing. Contact an experienced Long Island divorce lawyer at Bryan L. Salamone & Associates for more information.