🏛 The Post-Pandemic Reality of California Courts
Remote practice in California is here to stay. The Judicial Council formalized pandemic-era procedures, making remote depositions standard practice under CRC 3.1010, remote hearings available under CRC 3.672, and electronic signatures fully enforceable. But "allowed" doesn't mean "simple"—each procedure has its own rules, deadlines, and judge-specific quirks.
This hub exists because the rules are scattered across the California Rules of Court, Code of Civil Procedure, State Bar ethics opinions, and individual court local rules. We've consolidated everything you need to practice remotely without missing a procedural step.
📅 What Changed During COVID—And What Stuck
In March 2020, California courts went remote overnight. Emergency orders suspended in-person requirements across the board. Lawyers who had never appeared by video suddenly found themselves arguing motions from spare bedrooms while their kids did distance learning in the next room.
Then the emergency ended—but the convenience didn't disappear. The Judicial Council took what worked and made it permanent:
- Remote depositions became expressly authorized under CRC 3.1010, with the deposition officer (court reporter) able to attend remotely and no requirement that the deponent be physically present with the officer
- Remote hearing appearances were codified in CRC 3.672 and CCP 367.75, giving parties a presumptive right to appear remotely in most civil proceedings
- Electronic signatures gained broader acceptance, with courts recognizing DocuSign, HelloSign, and similar platforms for engagement letters, discovery stipulations, and settlement agreements
- Virtual client intake became the norm for many practices, with State Bar ethics opinions (COPRAC 2020-203) confirming that cloud-based practice is ethical when properly implemented
The real shift isn't technological—it's jurisdictional. Pre-pandemic, if you wanted to serve California clients, you needed a California office presence. Now, a California-barred attorney can legitimately serve California clients from anywhere in the state (or beyond, within limits). The physical footprint requirement for legal practice has fundamentally changed.
⚖ The Hybrid Reality: What Courts Actually Look Like Now
If you haven't been to a California courthouse recently, here's what you'll find:
- LA Superior Court: Heavy remote calendar for law and motion, with some departments requiring in-person for trials and long-cause hearings. Each department has its own preferences—check the courtroom information page before assuming anything.
- San Francisco Superior Court: More remote-friendly than most, with strong Zoom infrastructure. Complex litigation departments tend to prefer in-person for evidentiary hearings.
- Orange County: Mixed bag. Some judges love remote; others have reverted to in-person defaults. Always check the department's local practices.
- Federal courts (Central, Northern, Eastern Districts): Generally more tech-forward than state courts. Video appearances for most non-evidentiary matters are standard.
The bottom line: there's no uniform "California approach." Each courthouse—sometimes each courtroom—has developed its own hybrid model. This hub will help you navigate the baseline rules, but you'll still need to check local practices for your specific venue.
💼 Why This Matters for Your Practice
If you're a California attorney thinking about remote practice, you're probably in one of these situations:
- You want to serve clients statewide without maintaining offices in multiple cities. Remote depositions and hearings let you appear in Fresno, San Diego, and Eureka without the travel.
- You support international clients with California business interests. They're in London or Tokyo; you're handling their California litigation or transactions without requiring them to fly in for every meeting.
- You're building a lifestyle practice that doesn't require you to commute to a downtown office every day. Virtual practice lets you work from home, a coworking space, or wherever you're most productive.
- You need coverage for depositions or hearings and want to hire California counsel who can appear remotely without billing for travel time.
Whatever your situation, the rules are the same. The next tabs break down exactly what's allowed, the specific authorities you'll cite, and the technology that makes it work.
The biggest mistake lawyers make with remote practice is assuming it's simpler than in-person. It's not—it's different. You still need to know the deadlines, file the right paperwork, and follow court-specific protocols. The technology adds a layer of complexity (What platform? What backup plan? Who's hosting?). Don't treat remote as a shortcut.
📚 How This Hub Is Organized
This hub contains six comprehensive guides covering every aspect of virtual practice in California:
| Guide | Topic | What You'll Learn |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Hub Overview | The big picture | You're here now—understanding the landscape, authorities, and how to use this hub |
| 2. Remote Depositions | Taking & defending depositions virtually | CRC 3.1010 mechanics, exhibit handling, witness prep, on-record scripts |
| 3. Remote Hearings | Appearing by video in California courts | CRC 3.672 procedures, RA-010 form, when judges can require in-person |
| 4. Intake & Engagement | Client onboarding without meeting in person | Conflict checks, engagement letters, fee agreements, identity verification |
| 5. Security & AI | Ethics-compliant technology | Cloud storage, encryption, AI tools, COPRAC ethics opinions |
| 6. Cross-Border & Marketing | Practicing across state lines | UPL issues, multi-state practice, advertising to out-of-state clients |
Each guide includes practical checklists, on-record scripts, and the specific statutory citations you'll need. Use the sidebar navigation to move between guides, or work through them sequentially.
- Remote is the new default for depositions and most court hearings in California civil practice
- Know your authorities: CRC 3.1010 (depositions), CRC 3.672 (hearings), CCP 367.75 (remote appearance right)
- Technology isn't optional—competent virtual practice requires understanding the tools
- Each court is different—always check local rules and department-specific practices
✅ Quick Reference: What California Actually Allows Remotely
Almost everything is allowed remotely—but with conditions. Remote depositions are standard. Remote hearings are presumptively available with proper notice. Client intake and engagement can be fully virtual. The main exceptions: jury trials, some evidentiary hearings, and situations where the court specifically orders in-person attendance.
📋 Remote Activity Matrix
Use this table as your quick reference for what's allowed, what requires special procedures, and what exceptions apply:
| Activity | Allowed? | Primary Authority | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Depositions | YES | CRC 3.1010, CCP 2025.310 | Notice must specify remote format; parties may demand physical presence with 5 days' notice |
| Law & Motion Hearings | YES | CRC 3.672, CCP 367.75 | Request remote appearance; court may require in-person for good cause |
| Case Management Conferences | YES | CRC 3.672 | Generally routine—most courts default to remote for CMCs |
| Mandatory Settlement Conferences | YES | Local rules vary | Check individual court requirements; some judges prefer in-person |
| Non-Jury Trials | DEPENDS | CRC 3.672(f) | Court has discretion; complex cases and credibility-heavy matters often required in-person |
| Jury Trials | NO | Constitutional requirements | In-person jury selection and trial required; no virtual jury trials |
| Evidentiary Hearings | DEPENDS | CRC 3.672(f) | Court discretion; witness credibility often cited as reason for in-person |
| Client Intake/Consultations | YES | COPRAC 2020-203 | Reasonable security measures; identity verification; clear communication about confidentiality |
| Electronic Signatures | YES | UETA, ESIGN, CCP 1633.1 et seq. | Platform must meet authentication requirements; certain documents require wet signatures |
| Notarization | YES (Remote) | Civil Code 1185.5 | California-registered Remote Online Notary; audio-visual technology requirements |
| Mediations | YES | Evidence Code 1119-1128 (unchanged) | Mediator sets platform; confidentiality protections apply same as in-person |
| Arbitrations | YES | CCP 1282.4, arbitration agreement | Check arbitration clause; most provider rules now allow remote hearings |
🎙 Depositions: The Details
Remote depositions are the most common virtual litigation activity, and they're fully supported under California law:
- Format options: Telephone, videoconference, or "other remote electronic means" (CRC 3.1010)
- Court reporter: Can attend remotely under CCP 2025.310; doesn't need to be in the same room as the witness
- Notice requirements: Deposition notice must specify the remote format; standard notice rules apply
- Physical presence demand: Any party can demand physical presence at the deponent's location by giving 5 court days' written notice (CRC 3.1010(a)(3))
- Recording: Standard videography rules apply; videographer can attend remotely if proper protocols followed
The 5-day physical presence demand under CRC 3.1010(a)(3) is sometimes used tactically to increase costs for the deposing party. If you receive such a demand and believe it's pretextual, you can seek a protective order under CCP 2025.420. Courts have granted protection where the demand appeared designed to harass rather than serve a legitimate purpose.
🏛 Hearings: The Details
The right to appear remotely in California court proceedings is now statutory:
- General rule: CCP 367.75 provides that any party may appear remotely in civil proceedings unless the court requires in-person appearance for good cause
- Procedure: CRC 3.672 sets out the mechanics—use form RA-010 (Request for Remote Appearance) or check if your court has an automatic remote option
- Judicial discretion: Courts can require in-person attendance for trials, evidentiary hearings, or when remote technology would impair the proceeding
- Technology requirements: Audio-video connection allowing the court to see and hear participants; courts may specify approved platforms
"Except as provided in this section, a party may appear remotely in a civil action or proceeding." This is the baseline presumption—remote appearance is the default unless a specific exception applies.
👥 Client Intake & Virtual Practice
Running a virtual law practice—from client intake through engagement to service delivery—is fully permissible under California ethics rules:
- Virtual consultations: Video calls, phone calls, and even text-based communication are all acceptable for initial consultations
- Identity verification: You must take reasonable steps to verify client identity; video confirmation, ID document review, and clear communication about who you're representing
- Electronic engagement letters: Fully enforceable under California's adoption of UETA; DocuSign, HelloSign, Adobe Sign all work
- Cloud file storage: Permitted with appropriate security measures (see COPRAC 2010-179, 2012-184)
- Communication platforms: Secure messaging, encrypted email, and client portals all acceptable when properly configured
⛔ What's Still In-Person Only
Despite the virtual revolution, some activities remain stubbornly physical:
- Jury trials: Constitutional requirements mandate in-person jury selection and trial proceedings
- Physical evidence examination: When parties need to inspect tangible evidence, courts typically require in-person handling
- Certain witness testimony: Courts may require in-person appearance where witness credibility is central and demeanor assessment is critical
- Some probate proceedings: Conservatorship and guardianship matters often require in-person appearance for protected persons
- Criminal proceedings: Different rules apply; defendants generally have confrontation clause rights requiring in-person proceedings
💻 The Virtual Practice Technology Stack
Your technology is your office. In virtual practice, the tools you use determine your professionalism, security, and efficiency. This isn't about having the fanciest setup—it's about having reliable, secure, court-compatible tools that you actually know how to use.
📹 Video Conferencing Platforms
| Platform | Court Compatibility | Deposition Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zoom | Excellent | Industry standard | Most court reporters prefer Zoom; waiting rooms, breakout rooms, and recording built in |
| Microsoft Teams | Good | Works well | Corporate clients often prefer Teams; some courts use for hearings |
| Webex | Good | Works well | Federal courts often use Webex; Cisco security standards |
| Court-Specific Platforms | Required when specified | N/A | Some courts (especially federal) require specific platforms; check local rules |
Configure your Zoom for litigation:
- Waiting room: Enable to control who enters
- Recording: Require host permission to record
- Screen sharing: Allow multiple participants if both sides will share exhibits
- Annotation: Disable unless you want opposing counsel marking up your documents
- Chat: Consider disabling or limiting to host only during depositions
- Breakout rooms: Enable for private attorney-client conferences during depositions
✍ Electronic Signature Platforms
| Platform | Court Filing | Engagement Letters | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DocuSign | Accepted | Excellent | Industry leader; strong audit trail; court reporters and notaries accept |
| Adobe Sign | Accepted | Excellent | Good integration with PDF workflow; enterprise security |
| HelloSign (Dropbox Sign) | Accepted | Good | More affordable option; simpler interface; Dropbox integration |
| Clio Sign | Accepted | Good | Built into Clio; convenient if you're already in that ecosystem |
☁ Cloud Storage & Document Management
Under COPRAC 2010-179, you can use cloud storage with appropriate due diligence. The key is understanding your provider's security measures:
| Platform | Encryption | Legal-Specific Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NetDocuments | At rest + in transit | Full DMS functionality | Built for law firms; ethical wall support; comprehensive audit logs |
| iManage | At rest + in transit | Full DMS functionality | Enterprise-grade; common in larger firms; robust security |
| Clio | At rest + in transit | Practice management + docs | All-in-one solution; good for small firms; SOC 2 certified |
| Google Drive (Business) | At rest + in transit | Limited | Usable with appropriate settings; not built for legal; check BAA options |
| Dropbox Business | At rest + in transit | Limited | Similar to Google; works but requires lawyer-side organization |
Don't use consumer-grade cloud storage for client files. The free version of Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud lacks the security controls, audit capabilities, and contractual protections required for ethical compliance. Always use business or enterprise tiers with appropriate data processing agreements.
💬 Communication & Secure Messaging
| Platform | Encryption | Client Portal | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clio Connect | End-to-end | Yes | Firms using Clio; integrated document sharing and messaging |
| MyCase | End-to-end | Yes | Client communication portal; document sharing; case updates |
| Signal | End-to-end | No | Sensitive communications; disappearing messages; no client portal |
| Encrypted Email (ProtonMail, etc.) | End-to-end | No | Email communication; client must also use encrypted service for full protection |
🏛 Court-Specific Requirements
Different courts have different technology requirements. Here's what to check before your first remote appearance:
- LA Superior Court: Uses LACourtConnect for remote appearances; must register in advance; specific technical requirements for audio/video
- San Francisco Superior Court: Zoom-based system; check department-specific guidelines
- Federal (Central District): Often uses Zoom for Government; check individual judge's procedures
- Federal (Northern District): Webex common; each judge may have different preferences
Never use a court's remote platform for the first time on a matter that counts. Log in for a routine status conference or CMC first. Learn the quirks, the mute button location, how to share documents, and how the court handles technical issues. Your first remote appearance in a given courtroom should be low-stakes.
🖥 Hardware Essentials
Your technology is only as good as your hardware. The minimum setup for professional virtual practice:
- Camera: External webcam (1080p minimum) positioned at eye level. Built-in laptop cameras work but look up your nose.
- Microphone: External mic or quality headset. Laptop mics pick up room noise and sound hollow.
- Lighting: Ring light or desk lamp in front of you. Window behind you creates silhouette; window to side creates shadows.
- Internet: Wired connection preferred over WiFi. If WiFi, ensure strong signal. Have mobile hotspot as backup.
- Second monitor: For viewing documents while maintaining eye contact with camera. Essential for depositions.
- Backup device: Phone or tablet ready to join if primary computer fails.
🚀 How to Use This Hub
This hub is your virtual practice playbook. Six guides covering depositions, hearings, client intake, technology security, and cross-border issues. Each guide includes checklists, scripts, and the specific citations you need. Use it as a reference when questions arise or work through it sequentially to build comprehensive knowledge.
✅ Quick Start Checklist
- Review your malpractice insurance policy for virtual practice coverage
- Set up professional video conferencing account (Zoom, Teams, or Webex)
- Configure electronic signature platform (DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or similar)
- Ensure cloud storage meets COPRAC 2010-179 requirements
- Update engagement letter template for virtual practice disclosures
- Create virtual practice authorities folder (CRC 3.1010, CCP 367.75, COPRAC opinions)
- Test hardware setup (camera, microphone, lighting, second monitor)
- Establish backup internet connection (mobile hotspot)
- Register for LACourtConnect and other court-specific platforms as needed
- Create client intake workflow with identity verification procedures
📖 Recommended Reading Order
If you're new to virtual practice or want a comprehensive foundation, work through the guides in this order:
- Hub Overview (this page) — Understand the landscape, authorities, and technology baseline
- Security & AI — Get your technology ethics-compliant before you start using it with clients
- Intake & Engagement — Set up proper client onboarding for virtual practice
- Remote Depositions — Master the most common virtual litigation activity
- Remote Hearings — Learn court-specific procedures for appearing by video
- Cross-Border & Marketing — Understand UPL issues if serving clients outside California or marketing nationally
🔎 Use Case Quick Reference
Looking for something specific? Here's where to find it:
| I need to... | Go to... | Specific Section |
|---|---|---|
| Defend a deposition remotely | Remote Depositions | Defending Playbook tab |
| Take a deposition remotely | Remote Depositions | Exhibits & Recording tab |
| Appear at a hearing by video | Remote Hearings | RA-010 Mechanics tab |
| Set up a virtual consultation | Intake & Engagement | Initial Consultation tab |
| Get engagement letter signed electronically | Intake & Engagement | Engagement Letters tab |
| Choose ethical cloud storage | Security & AI | Cloud Storage tab |
| Use AI tools ethically | Security & AI | AI & Automation tab |
| Serve clients in other states | Cross-Border | Multi-State Practice tab |
| Market my virtual practice | Cross-Border | Advertising tab |
Add this hub to your browser bookmarks. When you get a deposition notice and need to check the remote protocol, or when opposing counsel objects to your virtual appearance and you need the citation, you'll want it accessible. Each guide is designed for quick reference during active matters, not just initial learning.
📆 Stay Current
California virtual practice rules continue to evolve. The Judicial Council updates CRC provisions, courts modify local practices, and the State Bar issues new ethics guidance. This hub is maintained to reflect current law as of January 2026, but always verify specific citations before relying on them in court filings or critical situations.
Key sources to monitor:
- California Courts website: courts.ca.gov/rules.htm for Rules of Court updates
- State Bar Ethics Hotline: (800) 2-ETHICS for specific ethics questions
- COPRAC opinions: calbar.ca.gov ethics opinions
- Individual court websites: For local rule updates and platform changes
🤝 Remote Litigation Support Services
I'm Sergei Tokmakov (CA Bar #279869), a California attorney who supports international clients with business interests in the United States. My practice is built for remote operations—I defend depositions by Zoom, appear remotely at hearings across California, and handle transactions entirely virtually.
Remote Litigation Services
- ✓ Deposition defense via Zoom (any CA venue)
- ✓ Remote hearing appearances (CRC 3.672 compliant)
- ✓ Deposition prep sessions via video
- ✓ Discovery document review
- ✓ Demand letter drafting and negotiation
- ✓ Settlement conference appearance
Virtual Practice Consultation
- ✓ Technology stack recommendations
- ✓ Ethics compliance review for virtual setup
- ✓ Engagement letter drafting for remote practice
- ✓ Client intake workflow design
- ✓ Cross-border practice analysis
- ✓ AI tool ethics compliance
What I Need for Deposition Coverage (48 Hours Before)
- ✓ Deposition notice and Zoom link
- ✓ Case caption and party list
- ✓ Key pleadings (complaint, answer, cross-complaint)
- ✓ Relevant discovery responses and document productions
- ✓ Expected exhibit folder (Bates-numbered)
- ✓ "Do not cross" topics list (privilege, strategy limitations)
- ✓ Witness contact information for pre-depo prep call
📄 Engagement Model
For referring counsel needing coverage or consultation:
| Service | Typical Structure | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| Deposition Defense | Flat fee or hourly (depending on complexity) | Can accept with 48+ hours notice |
| Hearing Appearance | Flat fee for routine matters; hourly for complex | 5+ business days preferred |
| Virtual Practice Consultation | Hourly | Scheduling within 1 week typically |
| Document Review/Discovery | Hourly or project-based | Depends on volume |
When you engage me for coverage, I'm your counsel's counsel. I maintain privilege, follow your strategic direction, and provide detailed post-appearance reporting. I don't poach clients or second-guess your case strategy. The goal is to give you reliable remote coverage that extends your reach without adding overhead.
CRC 3.1010 mechanics, exhibit handling, witness prep, and on-record scripts for defending depositions without being in the room.
CRC 3.672 deadlines, RA-010 form mechanics, court-specific platforms, and how to show up remotely without missing procedural steps.
Conflict-safe remote consultations, identity verification, electronic engagement letters, and fee agreement best practices.
COPRAC ethics opinions on cloud tools, remote work security requirements, and using AI without violating confidentiality duties.
UPL traps when serving clients in other states, multi-jurisdictional practice rules, and ethical advertising for virtual practices.