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At the Lectern

Attorney who argued two cases last week offers tips for Supreme Court video appearances

May 11, 2020

Appellate lawyer Michael Colantuono argued two different cases before the Supreme Court last Tuesday morning.  (See photo here of one of the arguments.)  It was the court’s second round of remote hearings.

In a Daily Journal column today, Colantuono says, “When you appear in a video conference you are, in effect, broadcasting a television show,” and he gives tips for optimizing your on-air experience, including background, lighting, and audio considerations.  He also reports that court staff offers both “an invaluable (and mandatory) dry run the Thursday before argument” and “two technology safety nets” — “a cell number to text the meeting moderator and a phone number so you can participate orally if all else fails.”

Related:

“Video proceedings highlight technology gap among attorneys”

“How the California Supreme Court Transitioned to Remote Oral Arguments in Less Than a Month”

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