What To Expect from a Virtual Hearing
Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C. has continued to serve our clients, uninterrupted, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, our service often looks a bit different. Now, the majority of our work is conducted remotely, including hearings.
In many cases, we are conducting virtual hearings using video or phone conferencing. Except for the location, hearings proceed much in the same way that they have before, only virtually. Still, you may have some questions about what to expect from a virtual hearing.
What You Need for a Virtual Hearing
In order for a virtual hearing to be possible, all parties need to be prepared with the right technology. Luckily, virtual hearings don’t require anything too fancy – likely, the things you need will already be in your home. The essentials for a virtual hearing include:
- Access to a strong internet connection and phone connection to avoid interruptions or delays
- A phone, tablet, or computer with a built-in camera and/or microphone
- The video/telephone conferencing app the hearing will use (the court or your attorney will notify about which app to use and provide instructions on how to use it).
- A quiet space where you won’t be disturbed and can hear the proceedings properly.
How to Prepare for a Virtual Hearing
- Stay in communication with your lawyer – adjustments to the time, schedule or app/conference line will likely be communicated to you though your attorney.
- Test your technology in advance – do a trial run with your phone, tablet or computer a day or two before the hearing to be sure you know how to sign in. If you have a phone hearing, test out your cell phone service in areas of your home to find the best spot.
- Follow instructions from your lawyer or the court and prepare to log in early
- Once the hearing begins, listen carefully to the instructions
Virtual vs. Face to Face Hearings
Both virtual and face to face hearings are led by the judge. Whether in person or remote, it’s important that all parties follow the judge’s instructions and listen intently.
Preparing in advance with your attorney will be important no matter what type of hearing you have. During this time, preparing for a virtual hearing may also include going over aspects of the technology or when it will be important for you to speak/respond.
As with any virtual interaction, there are some downsides to having a hearing in this way including technology difficulties or poor connections. However, the lawyers and judges involved are now skilled at navigating through this new way of operating. Your attorney will work to guide you through any challenges.
Find an Experienced Lawyer
Virtual hearings may be a newer phenomenon, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for a “newer” attorney. Now more than ever, it’s vital to have an experienced lawyer on your side. The lawyers of Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C. are ready to work for you. Our lawyers are worker’s compensation and personal injury specialists who earn large settlements for their clients and will guide you through the process. For a free consultation, call 1-800-HURT-NOW.
