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Video and remote hearings

Video and remote hearings

Some court hearings take place by video link instead of in a physical courtroom. This guide explains how remote hearings work, how to prepare, and what to expect on the day.

If you need adjustments (for example, a quiet space, assistive listening, extra time, or an interpreter), see Accessibility at court.

Contents

What a remote hearing is and who decides

A remote hearing is a court hearing held by secure video link. The judge decides whether a case will proceed remotely, in person, or as a hybrid. Your court notice or list entry will indicate the format.

How to check if your hearing is remote

  • Check the Legal Diary (for listed Superior/Circuit matters).
  • If you cannot confirm from the diary, contact your local court office via Find Us.
  • If you have a solicitor, they can confirm the format and send you any joining details.

Before your hearing: prepare your setup

Device and connection

  • Use a laptop or desktop where possible. A tablet or phone can work but may be less stable.
  • Test your internet in advance. A wired or strong Wi-Fi connection works best.
  • Close other applications and mute notifications.

Sound and video

  • Use headphones with a microphone if you can, to reduce echo.
  • Check your camera and microphone in the platform’s test area if provided.
  • Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background.

Your documents

  • Have your court papers and notes ready. Keep them off camera unless asked to share.
  • If you need to show a document, follow the judge’s or registrar’s instructions.

Accessibility and support needs

  • If you need adjustments (for example, extra time, written prompts, lip-reading positioning, or an interpreter), contact the court office or the accessibility officer as early as possible. See Accessibility at court.

On the day: joining and etiquette

Joining the hearing

  • Use the link or instructions provided to you. Keep any meeting ID and password safe.
  • Join 10 minutes early to test your audio and video.
  • Use your full name as it appears on your court papers, unless told otherwise.

During the hearing

  • Mute your microphone when not speaking.
  • Speak clearly and slowly. Say if you cannot hear or need something repeated.
  • Do not interrupt. The judge will tell you when to speak.
  • Dress as you would for an in-person hearing.
  • Do not share the link or allow others to view the hearing unless the court permits it.

If you have problems during the hearing

  • If disconnected, rejoin using the same link. If the problem continues, contact the court office.
  • If you cannot hear, say so in the call or use the platform’s chat (if enabled) to alert the registrar.
  • If your device fails, try a second device or phone dial-in if provided.

Privacy and recording

  • Recording, photographing or sharing the hearing is not permitted unless the court allows it.
  • Make sure nobody else can see or hear the hearing from your location unless authorised.

Information for legal professionals

Connection details for listed remote hearings are available from:

Guidance and practice notes:

Technology-enabled courtrooms by region:

Resources

  • Contact your local court office for platform-specific test links or practice sessions if available. See Find Us.
  • For accessibility adjustments in remote hearings, see Accessibility at court.

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