The short answer
What Illinois families should know.
A remote divorce hearing is a court appearance with the same seriousness as appearing in a courtroom. Illinois Supreme Court Rule 45 governs remote participation, but the type of proceeding, local rules, and the judge’s directions determine whether advance approval is required in your particular case.
Confirm the format for this proceeding
Rule 45 permits many civil appearances remotely without advance approval, subject to specified exceptions and local or case-specific directions. Evidentiary hearings, settlement conferences, and trials require closer attention to the rule’s approval provisions. A previous remote status date does not establish the format for a later trial. Read the current notice and order, and confirm whether each party and witness must attend personally or may appear electronically.
Make testimony free from outside influence
The rule requires safeguards for remote testimony, including identification and protection against undisclosed communications or improper access to information. Arrange a private space where no one can coach you. Tell the court about anyone present if asked, and follow instructions about documents. Do not text counsel, search the Internet, or receive whispered answers while testifying. Technical convenience cannot replace the integrity of the witness’s own answers.
Prepare exhibits and access before the hearing
Test the microphone, camera, connection, and device power. Learn how exhibits will be identified, shared, and viewed under the judge’s procedures. A document visible on your screen is not necessarily available to the judge or admitted into evidence. Keep permitted materials organized by exhibit number, and arrange a backup way to contact counsel if the connection fails. Request necessary interpretation or access accommodations early.
Treat connection problems as a record problem
If you cannot hear a question, say so immediately and ask for repetition. If disconnected, follow the court’s reentry instructions and tell counsel what occurred. Do not guess at testimony you missed. After the hearing, obtain the resulting order and confirm deadlines even if the session ended abruptly. Rule 45 recognizes access needs, including assistance for people who come to court because they cannot participate remotely on their own.
Prepare
Useful next steps
- Confirm the required appearance format and the correct connection information.
- Test technology in the room where you will actually appear.
- Arrange childcare, quiet surroundings, and a backup contact method.
Avoid
Common missteps
- Appearing remotely without required approval.
- Allowing unseen people or messages to influence testimony.
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This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws, court rules, local procedures, and individual facts can change the analysis. Reading it or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.