Probate Remote Appearance

Remote Appearance Information for Probate 

Rules will be strictly enforced starting January 1, 2025.

Parties who choose to appear remotely in the Probate Department must do so using Zoom as described below.

For general hearings, law and motion matters, ex parte hearings, and orders to show cause, parties may appear remotely without providing notice to the other parties or to the Court.

For evidentiary hearings, settlement conferences, bench trials, court trials, and jury trials, parties must appear in person unless the party or attorney receives written authorization from the judicial officer permitting a remote appearance.

See Local Rule 4-117, Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75, and California Rules of Court rule 3.672 for additional information.

Remote appearance is a privilege. Failure to follow court rules or procedures may result in the court requiring the party to appear in person.

Before your hearing date

• Ensure that you are familiar with Zoom and have tested it before your hearing. The Court cannot assist with technical difficulties during a hearing. If you experience technical issues, your case may proceed without your participation.
• Visit Zoom website for information about how to join Zoom meetings. Zoom works on desktop computers, tablets, and most smartphones.
• Test your audio and video before the hearing by visiting Zoom test meeting page.

On your hearing date

• Log in no later than 8:15 a.m. for an 8:30 or 8:31 hearing. The Court will begin roll call as close to 8:15 a.m. as possible. If you log in after roll call begins, you may not be admitted and will not be allowed to appear remotely that day.
• For hearings scheduled at other times, log in at least 15 minutes before the hearing. If you are not logged in when the hearing begins, you may not be admitted.
• Video appearance is required unless you do not have access to a device capable of video.

Zoom meeting information

You may also join the meeting by visiting Zoom website, selecting Join a Meeting, and entering the Meeting ID and passcode listed above.

Telephone participation

If you do not have a device with video capability, you may participate by telephone.

Dial 1-669-254-5252. Use the same Meeting ID and passcode listed above.

If your phone does not have a mute button, you may be able to mute and unmute by pressing *6.

Rename your Zoom display name to show your first and last name. Phone numbers or pseudonyms are not allowed.

After joining the meeting, you may need to wait several minutes while the courtroom clerk checks participants in. Once checked in, mute your audio and turn off your video until your case is called.

Do not call the department or courtroom to ask when your case will be called.

Technical difficulties

If you are disconnected or experience technical problems during the hearing, attempt to reconnect immediately. If you cannot reconnect, notify the court by calling (209) 992-5696.

Required conduct during remote hearings

• Recording, photographing, or taking screenshots of a remote court proceeding is strictly prohibited. Violations may result in sanctions.
• Video appearances must be live. Photographs, virtual backgrounds, or filters are not allowed.
• Participants must follow normal courtroom etiquette, including appropriate attire and no eating or drinking. If using a phone to connect, enable “Do Not Disturb” to silence notifications.
• Appear from a quiet, private location with minimal background noise and distractions.
• Do not appear while walking or while in a moving vehicle, even if you are a passenger.

Additional recommendations

• Ensure your device has sufficient battery power and access to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
• Position your camera at eye level.
• Ensure adequate lighting so your face is clearly visible.
• Close unnecessary programs that may interfere with your connection.
• Allow only one person to speak at a time.
• Raise your hand when you wish to speak or object to avoid interrupting others.