Local Rule 9029-1: Telephonic and/or Video Appearance at Hearings
Bankr. W.D.N.C. — General rule
Local Rule 9029-1 Telephonic and/or Video Appearance at Hearings
(a) Consent. Counsel who are unable to attend hearings in person may appear before the court by telephonic and/or video appearance only with the consent of the court and opposing counsel and provided that arrangements are made in advance.
(b) Arrangements. The attorney requesting permission to appear by telephone and/or video shall make all necessary arrangements with the judge's chambers and shall initiate the contact. The court may set a time certain for any telephonic and/or video appearance hearing requested so as to avoid delaying other matters on the hearing calendar.
(c) Assumption of Risk. The risk of poor reception or other problems is borne by the attorney requesting and initiating the telephonic and/or video appearance.
(d) Limits on Availability. Not all divisional offices support telephonic appearances. Refer to the court's website (www.ncwb.uscourts.gov) for availability.
(e) Telephonic and/or Video Appearances at Hearings Before the Judge. Counsel who wish to appear by telephonic or video means in any court hearing must follow and comply with the applicable rules for such appearances as may be posted on the court's website (www.ncwb.uscourts.gov).
(f) Telephonic and/or Video Appearances at Meetings of Creditors. Counsel appearing with their clients at § 341 meetings of creditors have the option of requesting appearances via telephone and/or video conferencing if the trustee or Bankruptcy Administrator has implemented such a policy. Arrangements for such appearances must be made with the trustee at least 30 days prior to the meeting date, and the procedures set by the trustee for the conduct of the meeting shall be followed; provided, however, that the trustee in his or her sole discretion may approve a shorter period of time for such arrangements to be made. Trustees offering video conferencing appearances at § 341 meetings of creditors shall nevertheless continue to offer the traditional option of in-person appearances by debtors and counsel.