Having your Matter Addressed in Court

When court opens, the Court Clerk will display the rules of decorum on the screen for the virtual court appearance and will read them out for those that are appearing via audio conference. You will hear and see the following:

“Court is about to commence, please ensure that you are on mute. Prior to court opening, I will provide an overview of the rules of decorum:

  • No food, beverages, gum or smoking is permitted. You may have water during your court proceeding.
  • You must be dressed appropriately for the formal court environment.
  • Find a suitable, appropriate location to avoid interruptions.
  • Judiciary should be addressed as if they are in a physical courtroom. (ie: Your Worship).
  • Mute your microphone until your matter is called by the court and you are required to speak. It is ideal to use a headset with a microphone to reduce background noise and improve clarity.
  • State your name before you speak and speak clearly. If you connect with ZOOM, your screen name should be your given name and surname.
  • Cell phones must be muted.
  • Close all other applications so you are not distracted or interrupted during the proceeding.
  • Do not carry on conversations while court is in session.
  • No recording, photographs, screen shots or live streaming permitted. Some proceedings may also have publication bans in effect.
  • If you have technical difficulties during the hearing use the “virtual hand” on ZOOM or press *9 if joining by telephone.
  • If you are disconnected from the hearing, immediately try to rejoin the hearing.

Once your matter has been addressed and concluded you will be provided with information regarding your next steps and you may disconnect from the court session.”

While court is in session you are asked to remain on mute and respect the decorum of the court.

When it is time for your matter to be addressed your name will be called and you will take yourself off of mute to address the court. If you are dialing into the court proceeding you will press *6. If you are appearing via video click the microphone icon to unmute yourself.

Once your matter has concluded you will be provided with information regarding your next steps and you may disconnect from the court session.