Best Practices for Attending Your Virtual Court Hearing

Virtual hearings have become a standard part of family law practice. Even though you are appearing from home or another private location, the expectations are the same as if you were standing in a physical courtroom. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and how to present yourself professionally so your hearing goes as smoothly as possible.‍

1. Courtroom Conduct (Applies Even on Zoom)

Treat your Zoom hearing exactly like being in a physical courtroom:

Professional Behavior

• ‍Be respectful at all times—to the judge, court staff, opposing counsel, and the other party.‍
• Do not react—no eye rolls, head shaking, sighs, laughing, or gestures, even if something upsetting or untrue is said.
• ‍Stay calm and neutral. Your credibility is strengthened by composure.

No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking‍

• ‍Only water is permitted, just like in a courthouse.
• No food, gum, alcohol, vaping, or nicotine products.

Appropriate Appearance and Setting

• Dress as though you are attending court in person.
• Choose a quiet, private place with minimal background noise.
• Avoid virtual backgrounds unless we instruct you otherwise.
• Ensure good lighting so your face is visible when your camera is on.

Technology & Preparation

• Test your internet connection, audio, and Zoom link in advance.
• Have your device fully charged or plugged in.
• Keep your phone on silent and remove distractions.

2. How the Hearing Will Proceed

Family law motions hearings move quickly. Most are strictly limited to five minutes per attorney, which means:

1. The moving party’s attorney (the person who filed the motion) speaks first.
2. The responding party’s attorney speaks next.
3. The moving party’s attorney gets a brief reply.

Because of this tight timeline:

• Not every detail will be discussed aloud.‍
• We rely heavily on the written materials submitted to the court.
• Judges read the written filings beforehand—your declaration and exhibits hold significant weight.

If the judge asks you a direct question:

• This is extremely rare and, if a question is asked, it will be a simple one.
• Answer only the question asked.
• Keep your answers short, factual, and respectful.
• Speak slowly and clearly.

3. Your Role During the Hearing

You are not expected to argue your case—that is your attorney’s job.

Please:

• ‍Stay muted unless the judge asks you to speak.‍
• Do not interrupt anyone.‍
• Do not whisper or speak to someone off camera.
• Do not message or text with anyone during the hearing (including your attorney) unless instructed.
  
  • If critical communication is needed during the hearing, we will provide a plan beforehand.

4. Important Zoom Hearing Instructions (King County Superior Court)

1. If you are on time and not let in within 15 minutes:

Email the court staff depending on your case location:

• ‍Seattle: FamilyLawStaffSeattle@KingCounty.gov‍
• Kent: FamilyLawStaffMRJC@KingCounty.gov

Do not leave the waiting room.

If you cannot email, call 206-263-0635 for assistance.

2. Once admitted into the meeting:

• ‍Mute yourself and turn off your camera until called.‍
  
• Rename yourself: Last name, First name (e.g., Doe, Jane).
• If disconnected, rejoin using the link or call the associated phone number; the court will let you back in.

3. Check-In Procedure

• The coordinator will call out names and case numbers.
• Please stay muted and do not speak until your name or case number is called.

4. Waiting for Your Hearing

• After check-in, remain muted with your camera off.
• Your hearing may begin anytime between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.‍
  
• When called:
  
  • Turn on your camera.
  • Stay muted unless directed to unmute.
  • Maintain courtroom-appropriate behavior.

5. After the Hearing

• Once your hearing concludes and the court directs you are free to leave, you may leave the zoom platform.

5. Additional Tips to Set You Up for Success

Choose the Right Environment

• Use a private, quiet room.
• Ensure children or other adults cannot overhear sensitive matters.
• Notify your attorney before the hearing if privacy is a challenge so we can strategize.

Avoid Disruptions

• Close all other apps and silence notifications.
• Tell household members you cannot be interrupted.
• Keep pets out of the room if possible.

Respect the Record

Your hearing is recorded. Everything said, done, or shown on screen may become part of the court record.

6. If You Need Assistance or Have Questions

Please contact our office before the hearing date so we can walk you through any part of this process. The smoother the logistics, the more we can focus on presenting your case effectively.