Zoom has become a household name over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many continue to physically distance themselves from others, our society has used methods like Zoom to also navigate different aspects of business and social life.
Unfortunately, the pandemic hasn’t changed the occurrence of car accidents. And in the case of an accident, it’s still necessary for you to receive the reparations you and your loved ones deserve.
Pierce & Shows is a law firm based in Baton Rouge, and we are prepared to obtain justice for you and your family. That includes representing you during your Louisiana trial, as well as preparing you for online and in-person alternatives.
Here’s what your personal injury trial might look like during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Zoom vs. In-Person Trials in Louisiana
The state of Louisiana hasn’t set a standard for trials or personal injury trials during the pandemic.
Some trials may still occur in person, but other trials might proceed over Zoom.
When it comes to your trial, the judge will let you know well ahead of time of where it will be taking place. If your trial is set to proceed over Zoom, the judge can also inform you on technical aspects, how the trial will differ from an in-person trial, and the role of you and your attorney.
If you have any questions about where your trial is going to be, check with your lawyer.
How to Be Prepared for Your Louisiana Zoom Trial
Like any in-person trial, the number one step is to come prepared for your Zoom trial. Consult with your personal injury attorney about your role in the trial, and be sure to follow their directions.
If you need to join the trial yourself via Zoom, then make sure you are familiar with the platform and will be able to command it properly when the time comes.
Zoom is a free software with videoconferencing, audio call, and live chat features. To join a trial, you will not need to create an account beforehand, but you will need to download the app to your phone or computer. Someone will send you a link to join the call, and you will click it to join the trial.
However, if you would like to create an account, then make sure you do this before the trial. Download the right version of Zoom for your device, and use a display name that will be appropriate for your trial. Simply your first and last name works best.
If you make an account before the trial, you can also practice with the features beforehand. That way, you are familiar with the application and won’t run into problems during the trial.
Know the Rules of Your Louisiana Zoom Trial
To prepare for your trial, you should also ask for and study any rules associated with the proceedings.
For example, in some Louisiana courts, any trial participants are prohibited from recording Zoom trials. This may even include screenshotting participants’ video displays or the live chat box of the trial. This rule stands in the Middle District of Louisiana, which includes parts of Baton Rouge.
Prepare for the trial by knowing and understanding the rules and procedures. This will save time and trouble for you and your personal injury attorney.
Stay Patient During Technical Difficulties
However, no matter how much you and your personal injury attorney prepare for the trial, technical difficulties are inevitable. With so many parties logging into the trial, it’s only natural that some might face bumps in the road.
It is important that you remain patient during your Zoom trial, even in light of technical difficulties.
Contact Pierce & Shows for Your Louisiana Trial
Our skilled Baton Rouge-based team has fought for our clients’ justice long before the pandemic, and we will continue to do so long after. Pierce and Shows has evolved with the times, and we are more than prepared to represent our clients both in-person and via Zoom. Contact our team today to start the process for obtaining you and your loved one’s justice.
