Overview
The 61st District Court offers Zoom for many hearings to reduce barriers to justice. This is to provides accessible virtual hearings for litigants, attorneys, witnesses, and other court participants.
Please review your Notice to Appear or Subpoena carefully. If it lists a judge’s Zoom link or meeting ID, you may join that virtual courtroom directly at your scheduled time. If your notice does not list Zoom information, please plan to appear in person.
For those without a specific Zoom link: If you are scheduled for an arraignment, a 'walk-in' matter, please join our Virtual Counter to check in with a clerk.
Virtual Counter / Walk-in Arraignment
Use the Virtual Counter to check-in when you do not have a judge’s Zoom ID
- Zoom Meeting ID: 899-957-3452
- Availability: Monday-Thursday 8:30 am – 11:30 am and 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
- What to expect: you will enter a waiting room. A clerk will greet you, confirm your case, and either place you into the correct Zoom courtroom or provide the courtroom link for you to join. Please remain in the waiting room until you are seen.
If your notice includes a judge’s Zoom ID:
Join that courtroom directly at the time listed on your notice. You do not need to visit the Virtual Counter.
Quick checklist before you join
- Rename your display to your legal name
- Make sure your audio works; use a quiet, stationary location
- Have your name, case number, phone, and hearing time ready
On the day of your hearing
- If using the Virtual Counter, join a few minutes early so the clerk can route you
- Keep your microphone muted until the judge or clerk instructs otherwise
- If you disconnect, rejoin using the same link
Decorum and recording
- Dress and behave as you would in court
- Do not drive during a hearing
- Recording or streaming is not allowed without court permission
Interpreters and ADA accommodations
- If you need an interpreter or an ADA accommodation, contact the clerk’s office as soon as possible at 616-632-5700.
Troubleshooting
If you cannot connect or are late, call the Clerk’s Office at 616-632-5700.
You can prepare for your virtual hearing by joining a Test Zoom Call. Within your test meeting, you have the ability to check your internet connection, familiarize yourself with Zoom's video conferencing features, and adjust your audio and video.