Vernon's Texas Rules Annotated - VTRA TX R HAYS CTY DIST Chapter 5. Remote Proceedings

5.1. In-Person Proceedings by Default.  All hearings and trials (proceedings) in the Hays County District Courts will be in person unless (a) the case involves an action under the Family Code filed by or against the Title IV-D agency in a Title IV-D case or is a child protection action under Subtitle E, Title 5 of the Texas Family Code, in which instance, remote proceedings will be at the discretion of the Judge, or (b) a judge finds good cause to determine that a remote proceeding is appropriate, after notice and opportunity for objections to be heard.

5.2. Remote Testimony of a Witness.  Upon agreement of the parties, and with the consent of the Judge, a witness may be permitted to testify remotely.  In the absence of an agreement, the judge, after notice and opportunity for objections to be heard, may permit a witness to testify remotely.

Despite the agreement of the parties, a judge may determine the remote testimony of a witness is not appropriate and may require the witness to testify in person.

5.3. Procedures for Remote Proceedings.  Each District Court, by standing order, may adopt procedures for remote proceedings and for witnesses to testify remotely.

5.4. Arrangements for Remote Proceedings.  Arrangements for remote proceedings or testimony must be made prior to the date and time of the proceeding.