Remote Appearances

IMPORTANT: When connecting to Zoom, you MUST enter your name and case number in the chat. Only parties to the case and attorneys will be admitted into the meeting. If you do not properly enter your name and case number in the meeting chat, and you are not admitted to the meeting, it will count as an absence or a failure to appear.

It is your responsibility to ensure your technology is in working order. Technical difficulties do not excuse you from your court date. If you believe you may experience a technical glitch that would cause your Zoom session to be disconnected before you finish your business with the Court, we urge you to attend in person instead of over Zoom.

Zoom Hearing Etiquette

To ensure court hearings run smoothly and respectfully, please follow these guidelines when appearing remotely:

Before the hearing

• Technology check: Ensure you have a reliable computer (laptops or desktops are preferred over mobile devices) and a stable internet connection (a wired connection is ideal).
• Practice with Zoom: Familiarize yourself with the platform, including how to mute/unmute and turn your video on/off.
• Background check: Choose a neutral and professional background free from clutter or distractions. A plain wall is best. Avoid distracting virtual backgrounds.
• Set up your space: Ensure you're in a quiet, private location with minimal background noise. Turn off other electronic devices to avoid interruptions.
• Lighting: Sit facing a light source so your face is well-lit. Avoid sitting with a window behind you, as this can make your face appear dark.
• Dress appropriately: Treat the Zoom hearing as you would a regular court appearance. Dress professionally and conservatively, just as you would for an in-person court setting.  

During the hearing

• Patience: You may be placed in a virtual waiting room before being admitted to the courtroom. Be patient as the judge or court staff manages attendance.
• Mute and unmute: Always keep your microphone muted when you are not speaking to avoid disruptions from background noise. When it is your turn, unmute yourself, state your full name before speaking, and remember to refer to the judge as "Judge" or "Your Honor".
• Clear communication: Speak clearly and concisely, ensuring your answers are audible to everyone in the virtual courtroom.
• Eye contact: Look directly into your camera, maintaining eye contact with the judge and others when speaking, similar to how you would in person.
• No interruptions: Do not interrupt the judge, attorneys, or witnesses. Wait your turn to speak, just as in a physical courtroom.
• Be attentive: Focus on the proceedings and avoid distractions like eating, drinking, or engaging with others in the room.
• Avoid notes: While having notes for reference is acceptable, avoid reading directly from them during the hearing. Familiarize yourself with the information beforehand so you can speak naturally.
• Maintain decorum: Be courteous and respectful towards everyone in the virtual courtroom. Uphold the dignity of the court setting, avoiding inappropriate physical or facial expressions and refraining from using profanity.
• No recording: Unauthorized recording (including screenshots, audio, or video) of court proceedings is strictly prohibited and can lead to fines or criminal charges.
• Confidentiality: If your case is confidential, you must ensure that no one else is present in the room or within listening distance of the hearing.

If you would like to appear via Zoom for Department 1 through Department 4, please send an email to legalprocessing@tuolumne.courts.ca.gov requesting a remote appearance. In your email please include the following information:

• Your name
• Case number
• Department your case is being heard
• Date of your court appearance

• Via internet: https://tuolumne-courts-ca-gov.zoomgov.com/j/1615813960?pwd=NTRMT0NwMDg5cnlYdzZ6VnBXWWFsUT09 
• Via telephone:  +1 (669) 254-5252, Meeting ID: 161 581 3960, Temp password: 123456