SOP 222.13-att-2: Court Services Video Hearings Frequently Asked Questions

SOP 222.13
Attachment 2

2/9/2024
# Court Services Video Hearings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

- How will the facility receive notification when a hearing is scheduled?

`o` The facility designee will check the court calendar in Scribe weekly which will

notify the facility of a court hearing. Court Services will also contact the designee
before court to ensure the facility will be able to comply with the hearing request.

- Who will schedule the offender for their court hearing?

`o` The facility will be responsible for ensuring that security is aware of the court

hearing and that the offender is brought to the designated video hearing room on
time. The court hearing will not appear on a busing list unless the offender is
transported to the facility.

- What happens if the video equipment is not working on the day of a court hearing?

`o` Court Services should be contacted immediately.

- What happens if the internet connection is lost during a hearing?

`o` Court Services should be contacted immediately. Facility staff should turn the video

equipment off and back on to see if an internet connection is re-established.

- If an offender refuses to come to the court hearing, what should a facility do?

`o` Court Services should be contacted immediately so the Court can be notified.

- Should we turn off the video equipment if security needs to use force?

`o` No, keep the video feed running. It will be up to the Court to decide if they want to

disconnect the call to move on to another hearing.

- What should a facility do in the event an offender has a disability?

`o` The facility should make reasonable accommodations in accordance with the

Americans with Disabilities Act. If the facility is unable to accommodate the
offender, Court Services should be contacted prior to the hearing date so that
accommodations can be made, or the offender can be transported to a facility that
has the necessary accommodations.

- Will offenders who are in lockdown be brought for video hearings?

`o` Yes. If there is a security risk, Court Services should be notified. The facility should

have a proper plan in place to handle the offender during the hearing.

- If the facility has a lockdown going on, what should we do about court?

`o` Court Services should be notified of the lockdown. It is expected that the hearing

would continue per normal. In the event of a situation that will jeopardize safety
and security, the hearing will be rescheduled by Court Services. This decision will
be made between Facility Operations and Court Services.

Retention Schedule: This FAQ page shall be utilized per the SOP until revised or obsolete.