Court & Hearings

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, courts have changed how they handle court cases. It is now common for courts to hold remote hearings instead of requiring that people appear in-person. 

What is a remote hearing?

A remote hearing is a court proceeding that takes place using technology instead of meeting in-person. Many courts are having remote hearings as an alternative to in-person hearings. Because of the benefits of remote hearings, the Illinois Supreme Court recently amended Rule 45 to make sure remote hearings continue to be an option.

Remote hearings can be done using telephone, video conference, or other electronic means. However, most courts use meeting programs or apps such as Zoom, Skype, or WebEx. To use these, you will need access to a smartphone, tablet, or computer. You will need to download the program and create an account, usually with an email address or phone number. The Illinois Courts website has several resources on how to make a remote appearance A form that lets the plaintiff and the court know the defendant is participating in the case. It can also be when a person shows up to their court hearing. in court, whether it is via phone or computer, or if you need language accommodations. Your local circuit clerk may have specific instructions, such as these.

Visit the Illinois Courts website to find information about how to attend your county court hearing. You can also contact your local circuit clerk.

How do I know if I have a remote hearing?

Starting January 1, 2023, you will have the option to participate remotely in most, but not all, court proceedings. The circuit clerk will tell you if you can participate in your hearing by phone or using video technology, such as Zoom, Skype, or WebEx. They will notify you by mail, email, or phone. They will also send you instructions on how to join the remote hearing.

Other types of court proceedings will be in-person, unless the judge gives you permissions to participate remotely. If you are required to appear in-person and would like to appear remotely, you must get permission from the judge in charge of your case. The clerk will tell you how you can make a request to appear remotely. 

Some counties, like Cook County, might have hybrid hearings. This means that some people attend the same hearing in-person, while others join in remotely.

Check with your circuit clerk if you have questions about whether your hearing will happen remotely or in-person. 

What do I need for my remote hearing?

Courts may have different rules, but here are some basic tips for a remote hearing.

• Make sure you have a good internet connection.
• Download Zoom on a computer or smartphone that has a camera. See short videos on How to Zoom from an iPhone, Android, and Computer.
• Charge your computer or phone before the hearing.
• Send the court any evidence Anything used to show that something is true necessary at least several days before.
• Tell the court if you have witnesses at least several days before.
• Sit in a quiet and private area.
• Use headphones if possible.
• Dress neatly as you would for an in-person hearing.
• Speak slowly and clearly.

If you do not speak English, tell the circuit clerk before the remote hearing. They will provide an interpreter or reschedule when one is available. 

If you are deaf or hard of hearing can request a sign language interpreter, captioner, or other necessary accommodation. Tell the circuit clerk as soon as possible so the court can request an interpreter or grant an accommodation.

Learn more about attending court by phone or video. 

VIDEO: Preparing for your Zoom court date. 

How does a remote hearing work?

The judge or the clerk will start the session. You can then join. The judge will say who will talk and when. They will explain how documents or evidence should be shared. During the hearing, the judge might make a ruling, schedule the next court date, and issue an order. The judge or clerk will explain how each person in the case will receive the order.

What if I can't make it to my remote hearing?

You will need a good reason to reschedule a remote hearing. You must tell the court before the scheduled hearing time. Find your circuit court’s contact information. Also, if you do not feel you can participate in a remote hearing, you often have the option of participating in-person.

What if I don’t have internet access?

If you do not have internet access, check this map to find a drive-up WiFi spot near you. A drive-up WiFi spot is a place you can drive your car that will allow you to access the internet. If you can’t get internet access, let the court know as soon as possible. They may be able to help you find a way to connect to the hearing. If you have a phone but no internet or camera, you can still join by calling the phone number and using the Meeting ID and Passcode that the court gives you.

In Cook County, there are Zoom rooms for people to use if they don't have access to the internet or the technology needed for a remote hearing.

What if I don’t have an electronic device that has video?

If you do not have an electronic device that has video, you may be able to participate by phone. Check with your local circuit clerk. 

Can I ask for an in-person hearing instead?

If you do not feel you can participate in a remote hearing, you have the option of participating in-person. However, the court may not always be able to accommodate in-person participation. If you show up at the courthouse and cannot participate in-person, the court will supply you with the necessary technology and support to participate remotely.

Contact your local circuit clerk to confirm that you can participate in person. Stay up to date on how your circuit clerk is holding hearings. 

What if I do have an in-person hearing?

If you appear in-person for a hearing, follow public health guidelines.

• Wash and sanitize hands thoroughly.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
• Maintain social distance when possible.
• Do not bring any person who is not a party A person or business involved in a court case in a role like plaintiff, petitioner, defendant, respondent, or intervenor. to the case with you.
• Wear a face mask.
• Stay home if you are feeling sick.

If you're in court for a hearing about detention or conditions of release, a space will be provided for you and your defense attorney to discuss your case.

How do I get court orders from the hearing?

Ask the clerk or the judge how you will get a copy of the order from your hearing. They might email or mail it to you.

Note: some final orders need to be certified, or stamped with the clerk’s seal, to become official. If you receive an order by email, you might need to bring a paper copy to the clerk's office to get it certified. The clerk can tell you if this is needed.

If you have a bankruptcy case in court, find more information about the Chicago, Peoria, or East St. Louis courthouses.