Audio Clarity & Etiquette Tips

The Audio Clarity & Etiquette (ACE) initiative is designed to improve the quality and reliability of courtroom audio recordings.

Clear and accurate recordings are essential to ensuring transcripts reflect what was said during court proceedings. ACE provides guidance and best practices to help court staff and users support high quality audio. By improving recording clarity, ACE helps promote fairness, accessibility, and confidence in the court process.

Simple tips to support clear audio so important words are accurately captured and transcribed.

Tips for Court Users (In Person courtroom appearance)

• Silence your cell phone before entering the courtroom.
• Always assume the courtroom microphone is on and recording speakers and proceedings.
• Verbal responses are required in the courtroom.
• Only one person may speak at a time in the courtroom.
• Speak clearly and slowly into the courtroom microphone.

Tips for Court Users (Virtual Zoom courtroom appearance)

• Before logging into the Virtual Zoom courtroom, connect to a strong Wi-Fi network and use a stable internet connection.
• Ensure you are in a quiet location with minimal background noise before entering the Virtual Zoom courtroom and during the entire proceedings.
• Turn on your Virtual Zoom video camera and remain muted until your case is called.
• Use the "raise hand" feature if you need to get the courts attention.
• If the audio cuts out, please pause and repeat what you said once the connection is clear.

If it can't be heard clearly, it can't be transcribed accurately.

How this helps the court process

1. Supports accurate transcripts 
2. Reduces delays when transcripts are needed 
3. Supports a smooth appeals process 

Helpful Resources

How to Order a Transcript 

How to Order Audio 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Date published:	April 14, 2026
Last updated:	April 9, 2026