Virtual Court interactions are to be treated the same as face to face interactions in all manners of dress, conduct, and behavior. This is an official Court appearance and should be treated as such.
All virtual court activity is subject to recording and live broadcasting under Texas Open Court rules.
All proceedings may be viewed by the public.
Notice: All persons contacting the court either by phone and/or virtually are required to follow the below basic guidelines:
Follow the staff member or presiding judge’s guidance about when to speak to ensure all parties are heard
- Be courteous and respectful to all participants
- No profanity is allowed
- Participants are not to place anything in their mouth during the call as this creates communication barriers (excludes medically necessary items)
All persons engaging the court online will be required to follow basic clothing standards.
All participants in Virtual Court should dress as if they are physically appearing before a Judge.
Persons not dressed appropriately will be advised as such and given an opportunity to call back when they are appropriately dressed.
Examples of inappropriate dress would include but are not limited to:
- Anything less in fabric than a full t-shirt
- Swimsuits
- Anything less than standard shorts
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To ensure the best experience and avoid delays:
- Participate from a location with good overhead lighting and where you can eliminate noise from other sources (family members, pets, loud appliances, etc.)
- Test your camera and microphone before you connect to the court
- Avoid setting up your device in front of a window, as you will appear in shadow
- Minimize interruptions by others in your environment