How do remote/virtual hearings work?

Introduction

Remote hearings now form a routine part of family justice in England and Wales. Courts use telephone, video or hybrid platforms to list procedural hearings interim applications and, where appropriate, contested hearings. This article explains how remote hearings operate, what participants should expect and practical tips to prepare effectively.

Types of remote hearings

Courts distinguish between telephone hearings, video hearings and hybrid hearings where some people attend physically and others join remotely. Short procedural hearings and directions hearings commonly proceed by telephone. Video platforms such as Cloud Video Platform or Microsoft Teams handle contested hearings that require document inspection witness attendance or oral submissions.

How matters are listed and technology used

The court issues a hearing notice that specifies the platform, joining instructions and any required passcodes. Parties must test audio and video in advance, provide the judge with reliable contact details and confirm who will speak for each party. Judges sometimes require a short pre‑hearing check to resolve technical issues and confirm the bundle format.

Document handling and bundles

Remote hearings rely on electronic bundles. Courts expect parties to exchange indexed, paginated bundles in the court’s preferred format and to upload them to the judge or to a secure portal before the hearing. Exhibits and authorities should be bookmarked so the judge and advocates can navigate quickly. Where a party cannot produce an electronic bundle the court may require them to provide a consolidated hard copy to the judge during the hearing.

Witness evidence and remote testimony

Witness evidence may be given remotely by live link or, where appropriate, by reading short statements. The court controls witness presentation, including identity checks, declaration on oath and guidance on screen view and document access. Judges manage remote witnesses carefully to preserve fairness and to protect vulnerable witnesses.

Practical conduct at remote hearings

Participants should join early, mute unless speaking and identify themselves clearly when addressing the court. Counsel should state who is present on the call and whether any linked participants, for example experts or interpreters, have separate connections. Where sensitive material appears the judge may order a private breakout or a short adjournment to manage disclosure securely.

Data protection, confidentiality and public access

Remote hearings raise confidentiality and data protection considerations. The court issues directions on recording, public access and data retention. Members of the public may view some hearings via livestream or telephone but the judge can limit public access and order parts of a hearing in private where confidentiality requires it.

Technical failures and adjournment

Judges adopt a pragmatic approach to technical failure. Where short interruptions occur the judge usually waits or adjourns briefly. If persistent failure prevents a fair hearing the judge may adjourn to a physical hearing or relist the remote hearing at short notice. Parties should have contingency plans and provide alternative contact numbers.

Tips for representatives and lay clients

Prepare a concise bundle, test technology, ensure a quiet professional setting and confirm who will give evidence and when. Lay clients should be briefed on courtroom etiquette, how to take an oath remotely and how to signal the need for legal advice during the hearing. Counsel should keep submissions succinct to reduce the risk of audio lag or disconnection.

Conclusion

Remote hearings increase access to justice and speed case progression when managed properly. Careful preparation, robust bundles and clear communication with the court make remote hearings effective for many family law matters in England and Wales. Parties who prepare technology, documents and witness arrangements in advance achieve better outcomes and reduce the risk of adjournment.

At Alexander JLO we have many years of experience of dealing with all aspects of family law and will be happy to discuss your case in a free no obligation consultation. Why not call us on +44 (0)20 7537 7000, email us at info@london-law.co.uk or get in touch via the contact us button and see what we can do for you?

This blog was prepared by Peter Johnson on 1st December 2025 and is correct at the time of going to press. With over forty years of experience in almost all areas of law Peter is happy to assist with any legal issue that you have. He is widely regarded as one of London’s leading divorce lawyers. His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website can be found Here.

To follow up on any of the above please contact Guy Wilton of our family department. Guy has wide experience of acting for the firm’s clients, their family and their businesses. Guy’s experience as a lawyer started in the Northern and Welsh Circuits, including the Liverpool Courts, where he represented numerous clients after being called to the Bar, before opting to join Alexander JLO in 2017 and qualifying as a solicitor in 2024. He is a highly experienced family lawyer with a particular interest in financial remedy proceedings and child contact disputes.

Guy’s profile on the independent Review Solicitor website can be viewed here.