Prepare for Court

Preparing for Your Day in Court 

Watch this video before your court date to ensure that you are informed of your rights. 

The video is also available in: 

• American Sign Language. 
• Spanish 
• Polish. 
• Korean. 
• Portuguese. 
• Haitian Creole. 

Watch this video for tips on how to participate in a remote court event. 

Request the Public Defender 

You might be entitled to a public defender for your court case. 

Your eligibility depends on the nature of your charge (see consequences of magnitude) and whether you qualify under income guidelines. Fill out this Financial Questionnaire and return it to us before your court appearance. The Judge will review your application during your Virtual Court appearance. 

Request Court Accommodations 

The court will provide an interpreter if required. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request an interpreter. 

Learn more about interpreting services 

What to Expect in Virtual Court 

It’s the public’s responsibility to ensure their own ability to connect to the court hearing. 

• • Look up your case information here Municipal Court Case Search. Have your case information available. 
• • If possible, download Zoom https://zoom.us/ before your court date. Be sure to grant Zoom permission to use your device’s camera and microphone. 
• • You can dial into the proceeding and appear by phone. Dial *6 to mute/unmute and *9 to raise hand. See instructions here: Join Zoom by Phone 
• • Cases are heard one a time. We thank you in advance for your patience. 
• • Try to avoid disconnecting as you may lose your place in line. 
• • Court staff will message you with questions or updates, be sure to look for the chat options in the waiting room and the meeting. 
• • If you have questions or concerns while you are waiting, you