As the courts continue to operate during COVID-19 restrictions, many court hearings are being conducted remotely. This means that the parties and witnesses participate via video conference from their home, office or other location instead of in person at the courthouse. The court uses a system called webex court hearing which is similar to FaceTime or skype and works on most Apple, Android and Windows devices including tablets and smartphones.
How does Webex hearing work?
To participate in a WebEx hearing, you will need to have a computer or tablet with a camera and a reliable internet connection. If you are using a smartphone or tablet, you may need to download the Cisco WebEx Meetings app from your device’s app store (iOS or Android). Once you have your equipment ready, you will receive an email invitation from the court which will include both dial in options for audio and video. The invite will also contain a meeting number and meeting password.
It is very important that you follow the instructions in the invitation email to prepare for your hearing. It is also very important that you do not mute your microphone or activate your video feed until instructed to do so by the Judge. It is also not permitted to record, screenshot or otherwise reproduce the hearing unless you have express permission from the Judge.