We’re all learning how to communicate in different ways. Video chat is great for a virtual happy hour with friends, but the stakes are high when work is involved. This is especially true for court proceedings. Here are some tips for navigating communication during social distancing and making sure that you retain your professionalism.
- Know where your mute button is and don’t be afraid to use it. Mute yourself if you are not speaking. Know when you are muted and when you aren’t. You don’t want to say anything you’ll regret when you think you’re on mute.
- Call from a quiet location.
- If you are with someone who is on the same call, either use the same computer or be far enough apart that the audio from one does not pick up the other’s and cause interference.
- If you are on a call with multiple people, state your name before speaking.
- If you are with co-counsel, establish between yourselves who will speak when so you are not talking over each other.
- Close the door to the room you are in.
- Be mindful of what is on screen behind or near you. Do not allow anything confidential or personal to be shown.
- Allow yourself extra time before a video hearing to test your equipment. Call or video in on time or early.
- Make sure you have the technology you need if you are appearing by video.
- If you’re on video, remember you’re on camera. Be mindful of your facial expressions during hearings.
- It depends. If you choose not to, make sure you don’t stand up!
Message from The McCarthy Law Firm
The McCarthy Law firm is a full service family law firm that services all family law issues. Please call us at 520-623-0341 if you have any questions or need assistance with your family law matter.
