Notice Regarding Remote Access to Proceedings

=== Notice Regarding Remote Access to Proceedings === UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT WESTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA Notice Regarding Remote Access to Proceedings for Cases Assigned to Judge John S. Hodge The Judicial Conference of the United States revised its broadcast policy, affecting public access to bankruptcy proceedings. Effective September 22, 2023, judges may provide the public and media with audio-only access to hearings that do not involve witness testimony. Any hearings that include witness testimony must be attended in person. For full details, see the Judicial Conference policy: Judicial Conference Broadcast Policy.

This policy does not affect the ability of parties, attorneys, or witnesses to participate remotely when permitted by the Court. Hearings without Testimony Unless otherwise ordered: • Parties and Attorneys: May attend in person or via Zoom for Government. • Public and Media: May attend in person or via audio-only Zoom. Hearings and Trials with Testimony • In-Person Proceedings: Hearings and trials with testimony must be conducted in person, unless the Court orders otherwise. • Remote Participation for Cause: The Court may allow remote participation for parties, attorneys, witnesses, or interpreters for good cause (including under Fed. R. Civ. P. 43(a . • Public Access During Testimony: Public and media may not access testimony remotely; in- person attendance is required. • Public Access During Non-Testimonial Portions: The Court may allow remote audio access for non-testimonial portions. Procedures for Remote Appearance via Zoom • Zoom Link: Join Meeting • Passcode: 6480377 • Audio-only Access: Dial Zoom’s conference phone number 1-(669)-254-5252 and enter meeting ID 160 6557 9520, press #, and press # again to skip the participant ID. Join Early: At least 15 minutes before the hearing. • Identification: Use your full first and last name.

Emails or nicknames are not allowed. • • Environment: Join from a quiet location. Do not join from a moving vehicle. Mute your device until your case is called. Do not use multiple active devices in the same room. • Recording: Any recording, screenshot, or copying of court proceedings is prohibited (see LBR 5073-1).

For questions, contact the Clerk’s Office.