If the defendant is in custody, video conferencing may be used to conduct initial appearances, bail hearings and, in accordance with CTC 27.03.010(5), arraignments. The video conferencing facility must allow for confidential meeting space between the defendant and defendant’s counsel, including the means to read and review documents executed during the hearing. The facility must also provide sufficient security to protect the safety of all persons present. To proceed under this rule all persons present, including the public, must be able to simultaneously see, hear and speak to one another.

The defendant must consent in writing to the use of video conferencing unless the defendant is excluded from the Court due to disruptive behavior and is returned to custody.

Proceedings conducted in accordance with this rule shall be deemed held in open court and held in the presence of the defendant for purposes of any ordinance, code, statute, court rule or policy. The electronic of facsimile signatures of the defendant, counsel, interested parties, and the court shall be treated as if they were original signatures.