- Dress
in a soft solid color (like a black robe for judges). If a tie is worn,
use a solid tie rather than one with a pattern.
- A
headset with microphone that plugs into your computer for better audio
quality is highly recommended for oral argument. Earbuds with an inline
microphone also work well. Blue Tooth cannot be used because it creates a
delay. If you are using a video conference unit, headphones/earbuds are
not necessary.
- When
speaking, remember to look directly at the webcam, not at the screen.
- Position
the camera at your eye level or slightly above eye level.
- Be
mindful of what is behind you; choose a solid neutral wall if possible.
- Check
the lighting. Light from a window behind you might blind the camera,
making you look dark. Light above you in the center of a room might also
cast shadows. Ideally, position a lamp, or sit facing a window, where
light is directly on your face. Also be aware that your monitor casts
light that can make you look blue.
- Participants
should speak one at a time and pause prior to speaking in case there is
any audio/video lag.
- Participants
should mute themselves when not speaking in order to avoid any potential
background noise.
- Avoid
shuffling papers or moving items around when you are unmuted, as the sound
can be very distracting and loud to other participants.
- Test
your equipment in the same location where you will be doing your video oral
arguments.
For some less prosaic -- and far more meaningful -- tips (about life, the universe and everything), see Prevailing in the Pandemic: Some Motherly Advice about appellate lawyer M.C. Sungaila's latest book.
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