Authored by: Candace Whitman
Virtual court sessions are becoming more common as courts adapt and find the best way to continue on with cases while still staying safe during the pandemic. Joan Feldman of Attorneyatwork.com shares some helpful tips for lawyers on how to be successful in virtual court appearances.
When you are making virtual court appearances, it is crucial to prepare for any technical difficulties that may occur. Feldman suggests you always have a backup hotspot or computer available in the case your internet goes out or your computer stops working. Make sure you arrive early and test out all of your equipment ahead of time. There are also websites where you can test your internet speed to help you decide if you need to think about upgrading your internet plan.
Another challenge you may experience with virtual court is distractions and interruptions from your family at home or colleagues/employees at the office. Create a system that lets everyone where you are working know automatically that you are in court. Judge Sohail Mohammed, referenced in Feldman’s article, says he has a flashing red light that he turns on when he is in court to let his wife and kids know he is in a court session. A sign on the door could also be an indicator to other’s that they should be more quiet than usual and avoid disturbing you.
Click here to read Feldman’s article for Attorneyatwork.com and to watch a webinar from the College of Law Practice Management on the topic that is referenced in Feldman’s article.
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