Court Access Videos
The Family & Youth Justice Programs (FYJP) created this series to support courts in making hearings easier to understand and more accessible. Feedback from over 200 judges, attorneys, coordinators, parents with lived experience, and staff during COVID recovery showed both benefits and challenges of remote hearings.
What we learned:
- Remote hearings reduced barriers like transportation and childcare, and some families felt safer joining virtually.
- Judges, attorneys, and staff said participation improved when people knew what to expect.
- Families reported that they needed clear guidance and consistent support from courts to take part fully.
- Overall, while opinions on remote hearings varied, participants agreed that predictable and consistent court policies and practices are key to helping families engage.
Additional Resources
NCSC Guide for Remote Dependency Hearings
A national resource with checklists for judges, attorneys, and staff; tools for running fair hearings; and an assessment for reviewing local policies and practices.
Court Access Video Series
Overview sheet describing both videos, why they were created, and how courts can use them together to support access to justice.
Perceptions from the Field
Findings on how virtual hearings affect families, attorneys, and courts, with recommendations for improving practice.
Virtual Hearing Results Spokane
A closer look at how remote dependency hearings worked in Washington, including challenges and successes from two counties.
Part 1: Preparing for Your Hearing
Whether you are attending your dependency hearing in-person, by phone, or virtually, this video will give you some tips to be better prepared.
Language Options:
One-page guide explaining why access matters, what the video covers, and how courts can use it.
Part 2: Connecting to Your Hearing Using Zoom, WebEx, or Teams
If you have approval from the court to attend your hearing virtually, this video will give you step-by-step directions for joining your hearing from a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Language Options:
One-page guide showing the benefits of virtual hearings and how courts can support families with clear policies and practices.
Promotional Materials
