Virtual Family Court Hearings in Alberta

The Rise of Virtual Court Hearings

Virtual court hearings have become a permanent fixture in Alberta's family court system. What began as an emergency measure during the pandemic has evolved into a standard option for many types of family law matters. Understanding how to navigate virtual hearings is now essential for anyone involved in family court proceedings.

Alberta courts primarily use Cisco WebEx for virtual hearings, though some proceedings may use Microsoft Teams or other platforms. The Court of King's Bench and Provincial Court both conduct virtual hearings, with specific procedures that participants must follow.

Virtual hearings offer significant benefits, including reduced travel time and costs, greater accessibility for those in rural areas, and increased flexibility for scheduling. However, they also require careful preparation to ensure you present yourself effectively and avoid technical difficulties that could negatively impact your case.

Types of Hearings Conducted Virtually

Not all hearings are suitable for virtual proceedings. Alberta courts typically conduct the following types of family law matters virtually:

Commonly Virtual

• Case management conferences: Procedural meetings to set timelines and identify issues
• Special chambers applications: Interim motions for temporary orders
• Pre-trial conferences: Settlement discussions and trial preparation
• Docket court appearances: Brief scheduling or administrative matters
• Consent applications: Where parties agree on the outcome
• Uncontested divorce applications: Desk divorces by written submission

Often In-Person

• Trials: Particularly those involving significant credibility assessments
• Complex evidentiary hearings: Where extensive document review is required
• Emergency protection order hearings: Sometimes conducted in person for safety reasons
• Child interview or voice of the child proceedings: May be better suited to in-person interaction

If you have a preference for in-person or virtual attendance, discuss this with your lawyer or contact the court. In some cases, hybrid hearings (some participants in person, others remote) may be available.

Technology Requirements

Successful virtual court attendance requires appropriate technology and a suitable environment.

Essential Equipment

• Computer, tablet, or smartphone: A computer or tablet provides a better experience than a phone due to larger screen size
• Camera: Built-in laptop cameras work fine; ensure it is positioned at eye level
• Microphone: Built-in microphones are acceptable; headsets provide better audio quality
• Speakers or headphones: Headphones reduce echo and improve privacy
• Stable internet connection: Wired ethernet is most reliable; strong WiFi is acceptable

Internet Connection Requirements

For video conferencing, you need:

• Minimum 1.5 Mbps upload and download speed (10+ Mbps recommended)
• Consistent connection without frequent drops
• Avoid using cellular data if possible (less reliable)
• Close other applications and devices using bandwidth during your hearing

WebEx Requirements

You can join WebEx meetings through:

• The WebEx desktop application (recommended for best performance)
• A web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari)
• The WebEx mobile app on your phone or tablet
• Telephone dial-in (audio only, no video)

If this is your first time using WebEx, download and test the application well before your hearing date.

Preparing Your Environment

Your physical environment significantly impacts how you are perceived during a virtual hearing.

Location Requirements

• Private space: You must be alone and able to speak freely
• Quiet area: Minimize background noise from traffic, pets, children, appliances
• Dedicated time: Arrange childcare; children should not be present
• No interruptions: Put your phone on silent; close email notifications

Visual Background

• Neutral background: Plain wall, bookshelf, or tidy professional space
• No distracting items: Remove posters, personal photos, clutter
• No virtual backgrounds: Courts generally require you to show your actual environment
• No moving elements: Avoid ceiling fans, pets, or people walking behind you

Lighting

• Face the light source: Position yourself facing a window or lamp, not with light behind you
• Even lighting: Avoid harsh shadows on your face
• Natural light is best: But avoid direct sunlight causing glare
• Test beforehand: Check how you appear on camera before the hearing

Camera Positioning

• Eye level: Camera should be at or slightly above eye level (use books to elevate laptop if needed)
• Proper framing: Head and shoulders visible, centered in frame
• Appropriate distance: Not too close (unflattering) or too far (hard to see expressions)
• Stable surface: Use a desk or table; avoid holding your device

Professional Presentation

Virtual hearings are real court proceedings requiring the same level of professionalism as in-person appearances.

Dress Code

• Business attire: Dress as you would for an in-person court appearance
• Solid colors: Avoid busy patterns, stripes, or bright white (causes glare)
• Full outfit: Dress professionally top to bottom in case you need to stand
• Neat appearance: Groomed hair, minimal distracting jewelry

Courtroom Etiquette for Virtual Hearings

• Mute when not speaking: Background noise is distracting; unmute only when addressing the court
• Look at the camera: When speaking to the judge, look at your camera, not the screen
• Address the judge properly: Use "Your Honour" or "Justice [Name]" as appropriate
• Wait to speak: Do not interrupt; there may be audio delays
• Stand when required: Some judges ask you to stand for formal parts of the hearing
• No eating or drinking: Water is acceptable; avoid noisy snacks or coffee slurping
• No smoking or vaping: Courts have prohibited smoking; this applies to virtual hearings too

Body Language

• Sit upright: Good posture conveys attentiveness and respect
• Face forward: Keep your face visible to the camera at all times
• Minimal movement: Avoid fidgeting, swaying, or excessive hand gestures
• Neutral expressions: Control reactions to testimony or arguments you disagree with
• Stay engaged: Appearing bored or distracted reflects poorly on you

Before Your Hearing

Preparation is crucial for a successful virtual court appearance.

Days Before

• Test your equipment and internet connection
• Download and install WebEx if you have not already
• Review your documents and organize them for easy reference
• Confirm the hearing details (date, time, access information)
• Arrange childcare and clear your schedule

Day Before

• Charge all devices fully
• Set up your workspace and test lighting and camera angle
• Lay out your outfit
• Set multiple alarms to ensure you wake up on time
• Do a final review of your materials

Day Of (Before Joining)

• Log in 15-30 minutes early to test your connection
• Close unnecessary applications on your computer
• Silence your phone and disable notifications
• Use the restroom before the hearing starts
• Have water within reach
• Have pen and paper ready for notes
• Ensure your documents are accessible (printed or on a second screen)

Joining and Participating in the Hearing

Understanding the process helps you participate effectively.

Joining the Meeting

• Use the link and access code provided by the court
• Enter your full name as it appears on court documents
• You may enter a virtual waiting room before being admitted
• The clerk or judge will admit participants when ready

During the Hearing

• Remain muted unless speaking to the court
• Follow the judge's instructions about when to speak
• Ask for clarification if you cannot hear or understand something
• If you have technical difficulties, inform the court immediately
• Do not communicate privately with others during the hearing (text, phone, etc.)

Document Sharing

If you need to share documents during the hearing:

• Documents should be filed with the court before the hearing
• Have digital copies ready to share via screen share if permitted
• Know the exhibit numbers and page numbers of key documents
• Some courts use a document sharing platform; follow their procedures

Troubleshooting Technical Issues

Despite best preparation, technical problems can occur. Here is how to handle them.

Common Problems and Solutions

• Audio not working: Check your speaker/microphone selection in WebEx settings; try unplugging and replugging your headset
• Video not working: Ensure no other application is using your camera; restart the application
• Frozen video: May indicate bandwidth issues; try turning off video temporarily
• Disconnected: Rejoin using the same link; inform the court when you return
• Echo: Use headphones; ensure only one microphone is active

Have a Backup Plan

• Know the telephone dial-in number for the hearing
• Have your lawyer's contact information ready
• Have a backup device (phone) ready to join if your computer fails
• Have an alternative internet option (mobile hotspot) if your WiFi fails

If Problems Persist

If you have serious technical problems that prevent participation:

• Inform the court immediately through whatever means available
• Call the court registry to report the issue
• Document what happened for the record
• The hearing may be adjourned if you cannot participate meaningfully

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

• Family Court Guide
• Self-Representation in Court
• Changing Court Orders
• Emergency Court Applications
• Choosing a Family Lawyer