Attending court hearings by Zoom has become more common the last four years. Zoom is a real-time audio and video virtual meeting computer and phone application. It allows participants to see and hear each other.

Spokane Municipal Court and Spokane District Court have policies for Zoom attendance. Plenty of folks have failed to use Zoom correctly. Proper preparation will help keep your Zoom hearing from becoming the next viral video!

First, you must first obtain an internet link for the specific hearing you would like to attend. This can be done through your attorney or the court staff.

Once you have the link, here are some best practices for attending court hearings by Zoom:

  • Choose a quiet place to participate in the hearing. Cell phones should be muted, doors to rooms closed, and disruptions minimized. Do not join the meeting while in a moving vehicle.
  • Log in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for your court hearing, just in case your software needs to update.
  • Double check your “screen name” to make sure it is accurate and appropriate.
  • If you see a message that says “Join with Computer Video/Audio,” click “yes” and you’ll join the hearing.
  • If there’s a “waiting room,” court staff will allow you to “enter” the court hearing.
  • Consider using the “blur background” feature, which gives you a little more privacy.
  • Mute your microphone unless you need to speak.
  • When speaking be polite and refer to the judge as “your honor.”
  • Do not leave the hearing until you are excused by the judge or your attorney.

Whether you have a DUI First Appearance or any other legal issue, call Cooney Law Offices today. Their knowledgeable and compassionate team can guide you through the process. Cooney Law Offices. We Can Help!