Joining the Video Conference
NOTE: You can test your device’s compatibility using link: https://zoom.us/test
The video conference software Zoom is available providing the notice of remote appearance is acknowledged prior to Mandatory Settlement Conference date. You will be able to join the conference through a link the court emails you.
- You do not need a Zoom subscription to join the video conference. By selecting the link provided to your email, you will be automatically connected to the Settlement Conference calendar.
- You may connect to the video conference from either your computer or tablet/phone. The court recommends using a computer, if possible.
- If you are using a desktop computer or laptop, you will not be required to install the Desktop App version of Zoom. You will be able to join directly from your Web Browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Opera).
- If you are using a tablet or phone, you will be required to download the Zoom app, but will not be required to make an account.
- It is recommended to use a wired connection or highly reliable Wi-Fi connection with your computer. The court does not recommend using cellular data as it may cause quality issues.
- You must be located in a quiet, indoors location. It is recommended to use headphones
Participating in the Video Conference
At the start time of the calendar, click the link provided in the email to join the conference. When you join, you will be prompted to provide a name. Please use both your first and last name. During the call, there are a few controls to be aware of:
Symbol | Use |
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Mute or Unmute your Video (use the ^ menu option to expand your video settings) |
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Mute or Unmute your Audio (use the ^menu option to expand your audio settings) |
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Disconnect from the Call |
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Move back to Main Room |
After you have joined the conference, the court clerk (Moderator) will be moving parties into their own breakout rooms/sessions to conduct settlement discussions. The court clerk will bring the pro-tem judge into each breakout room/session.
Drafting Agreements
If there is no agreement during the settlement conference, you will still be required to attend your Civil Trial Conference.
If there is an agreement during the settlement conference, the agreement may be circulated for signature before submission to the Court. Parties should expect to sign an agreement on SignNow before disconnecting from the conference.
Frequently Asked Questions
To motion for a remote appearance for a Mandatory Settlement Conference, file and serve Local Form PL-CW010 Motion for Remote Appearance: Courtwide no later than five (5) business days before the hearing. This motion must be served on all parties before filing the form with the Court. The completed proof of service must be attached to the form when it is filed. See more information about the request process here.
Once you have received your email confirmation from the Court, it is recommended to connect using one of the following:
- A computer running Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Opera; a webcam; and a microphone. Note that you will not be required to download the app version of Zoom if you are using a computer. You can test your device’s compatibility using link: https://zoom.us/test. Headphones and charger are recommended.
- An iPhone or iPad with the Zoom app installed. Headphones and charger are recommended
- An Android phone or tablet with the Zoom app installed. Headphones and charger are recommended.
Be sure to check that you receive the email confirmation, and that it did not go to your Spam inbox.
For a better internet connection, use a wired connection with your computer and connect your phone or tablet to Wi-Fi. We do not recommend using cellular data as it may cause quality issues with video conferencing.
As a reminder, you must be indoors in a quiet location.
No. By using the link provided in your email, you will not have to register an account with Zoom. Additionally, if you are using the computer or mobile app to connect, you will have the option to join as a “Guest”.
Click on the link provided in the email confirmation sent to you from SettlementConferences@placer.courts.ca.gov.
For a computer:
- Click the link in your email confirmation.
- Select “Join from your browser”.
- Enter your first and last name, and complete the reCAPTCHA when prompted. You may have to allow access to your computer’s audio and video.
- You will be prompted to select Computer Audio or Phone Call. If your computer is not equipped with a microphone, select Phone Call and dial into the meeting. Once you call in, you will be able to view the screen and connect with video only.
Note: If you have the app on your computer, it will automatically open when you select Join Meeting.
For a mobile app:
- Download the app and then click the link in the email confirmation. This will open the app.
- Enter your name.
- Allow access to the Microphone and Camera.
- Select Join Meeting.
You should always join the conference by the allotted start time unless Court staff have provided you with other instructions.
See https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/204484835-My-audio-is-not-working-on-iOS-or-Android for assistance.
The Court may request your signature on certain documents (eg: stipulations, agreements). The request will be emailed to you through SignNow. If you receive an email requesting your signature:
- Click on Open Document.
- Complete the fields designated for you (eg: name, signature, date, checkboxes).
- Send the document back to the Court using the Done button at the top right corner of the page.
Note: SignNow emails may be sent to your Spam inbox.