MHVFC - Medicine Hat Virtual Family Court

Family Docket is a part of the Alberta Court of Justice. This Court deals with applications with respect to child support, spousal support, parenting arrangements, guardianship/contact with children and child protection. Virtual hearings will be conducted using Cisco Webex Meetings.

All policies with respect to the use of recording equipment in courtrooms apply to virtual hearings. Recording, live streaming or broadcasting the video or audio of any virtual hearing by Counsel, parties, witnesses, any member of the public or the media is strictly prohibited.

Unless otherwise provided in this notice, virtual hearings are governed by the same set of expectations and rules as in-person hearings. Counsel, parties, members of the media, and others who participate in virtual online hearings are expected to conduct themselves as though they are physically appearing in a courtroom. In addition, Counsel, parties, witnesses, the media, and the public are expected to review and comply with the general guidelines found below.

Disclaimer:

  • I understand that in keeping with the open-court principle of Canada’s justice system, I can view this proceeding but, to protect the integrity of Court proceedings, I undertake and agree not to record or rebroadcast in any manner the Court proceeding. I acknowledge that if I breach this promise and agreement, I may be subject to legal sanction, including proceedings for contempt of Court.
  • I understand that proceedings are recorded as part of the court record.

Conduct During Court:

  • Participants must conduct themselves for remote hearings as if they were physically in the courtroom.
  • Ensure no more than one person is speaking at a time.
  • Participants must be in a private, quiet space.
  • Ensure that there are no sources of noise or distraction in the room.  
  • Please wear appropriate attire, ensure background is appropriate
  • Ensure that when you sign in you provide your full first name and last name

Audio/Video Tips:

  • All participants in a virtual hearing must have access to a computer, telephone, laptop, or tablet equipped with a camera and microphone
  • Participants should ensure that their devices are fully charged or connected to a power source
  • Ensure a stable and reliable internet connection
  • Avoid feedback by keeping the volume at a reasonable level.
  • Use a headset with a microphone as it provides better audio and reduces background noise when you are speaking
  • Speak directly into the camera and microphone
  • Mute your microphone when not speaking
  • If the connection becomes unstable turn off video and use audio only
  • Participants should join the remote appearance 10 minutes early

On the day of your court appearance, please log in 15 minutes early.

I agree that I have read and will abide by the above direction.