Bill > SB299

This bill provides a comprehensive framework for conducting remote proceedings in juvenile court cases in Texas. The legislation defines a "remote proceeding" as any court proceeding where participants can attend using technology like teleconferencing or videoconferencing, including judges, attorneys, witnesses, and court reporters. Under the new law, juvenile courts will have the authority to conduct hearings remotely without requiring consent from parties, unless the U.S. or Texas Constitution mandates otherwise. Judges will be required to submit a detailed plan to the Office of Court Administration that includes protocols for handling physical evidence and ensures an unobstructed view of remote participants providing testimony. The bill standardizes the definition of "remote proceeding" across different sections of the Family Code by referencing a new Section 51.055, and it repeals previous sections related to remote proceedings. The legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing courts and legal professionals ample time to prepare for and implement these new remote proceeding guidelines in juvenile court cases.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB299