Assistive Listening headsets utilize amplifiers that bring sound directly into the ear to distinguish speech and filter out background noise. These headsets are available for use by those requiring reinforced audio via headphones. Please contact the courtroom clerk well in advance of a hearing to alert technology staff to make the equipment available if it is not already permanently installed in that courtroom.

Content presentation from a mobile device (Laptop, iPad) or document camera is available in all Bankruptcy courtrooms in the Central District. With the Court's approval, attorneys can display paper or digital exhibits on all courtroom monitors. Small courtroom monitors located at the judge's bench, witness, and counsel tables. The document camera is used to display documents and, if needed, three-dimensional objects. In some courtrooms a touch-sensitive monitor is located at the lectern and witness locations to electronically annotate any content that is presented to the Court.

Courtrooms are equipped with teleconferencing capability that allows attorneys and witnesses to participate in court hearings via telephone. Incoming audio is broadcast through the courtroom audio system, so it is recommended all phones are muted until your case is heard. To achieve the best audio quality when calling into the courtroom, a landline should be used. Calling in using a cell phone or any type of speakerphone will result in poor audio quality for all participants. Participation via telephone must be coordinated with the courtroom clerk for the presiding judge. Please see the following section from The Central Guide: 9074-1: Hearings: APPEARANCES: Telephone or Videoconference.

Videoconferencing allows offsite attorneys and witnesses to participate in court hearings remotely or without court staff being physically present in a courtroom. Videoconferencing capability is available in all courtrooms and can accomplish video calls to multiple participants simultaneously via Zoom or the national videoconference bridge. All videoconference calls and third-party equipment should be tested with the court well in advance of any hearing. If appearing from a remote location, be aware to eliminate sources of bright light originating from the back of the attendee, close window shades to reduce glare and negative effects on the video camera. Please see the following section from The Central Guide: 9074-1: Hearings: APPEARANCES: Telephone or Videoconference.

The Attorney Admissions Fund for the Central District of California is funding free access to a wireless internet network for attorneys and trustees doing business with the Bankruptcy Court. Wireless access is available on all courtroom floors in all divisions. For more information please see the Wireless Network page.

Interpretation equipment is installed in many courtrooms, or can be quickly deployed, to facilitate in-room language interpretation. The equipment functions in conjunction with assistive listening headset(s) and provides the benefit of live language interpretation (simultaneous interpretation). The interpreter will listen to the dialogue in the courtroom and simultaneously speak into the headset, which broadcasts wirelessly to the person with limited English proficiency wearing the assistive listening headset so that person can hear the proceedings in the desired language. Please contact the courtroom clerk to reserve interpretation equipment.

All bankruptcy courtroom hearings in the California's Central District are digitally recorded and stored as the Court's official record. While in the courtroom, it should be assumed this system is active and recording so legal decorum should be exercised at all times. The following tips will help all participants ensure a pristine version of the court record:

• Speak directly into the nearest microphone. Remain in front of the microphone and be mindful to minimize turning your head while speaking.
• Identify yourself for the record by including the spelling of your name and whom you represent.
• Speak with a reasonable tempo. This is particularly important when language translation is being performed and when unusual or a highly technical vocabulary is being used.
• One person should speak at a time.
• Avoid hand gestures and make sure to verbally describe any visual elements in testimony or argument that should be captured on the record.
• If momentary privacy is desired, press and hold the mute button on the microphone during consultation and release when finished. The microphone will become active again when the mute button is released.
• Please keep cell phones and other electronic equipment out of the immediate proximity of microphones as electronic interference from those devices may negatively affect courtroom audio.
• If playback of an argument or testimony is required, please notate the time displayed on the digital clock next to the court recorder. Next, submit your request and the time of the recording to the court.

• Please arrive on time. Court proceedings often follow a strict schedule. Arriving late can possibly disrupt the courtroom calendar.
• Dress appropriately. Please observe a level of decorum that reflects professionalism and respect for the Court.
• Please be respectful to everyone in the courtroom including the Judge, opposing counsel, court staff and witnesses.
• Please silence your cell phone and personal mobile devices to avoid disrupting court proceedings.
• Wait until called upon to speak and do not interrupt others. Speaking over or interrupting others when they are speaking is disrespectful.