How to Get the Zoom Link for Riverside Courts

I recently had a client, Mac, whose codicil – a simple amendment to his trust – was rejected by the Riverside Probate Court. He’d spent nearly $8,000 on legal fees to draft it, and another $500 to have it notarized, only to have the judge toss it out because a crucial witness signature was missing. It was a devastating blow, and a stark reminder that even seemingly minor errors can have huge financial consequences in probate. A lot of clients are now asking about appearing remotely, and rightfully so – navigating the court system shouldn’t require a major life disruption. As an Estate Planning Attorney and CPA with over 35 years of experience here in Moreno Valley, I’ve seen firsthand how remote appearances can be a game-changer, but knowing how to access them is often the biggest hurdle.

What’s Changed with Remote Hearings in Riverside Probate?

The pandemic forced a rapid shift to remote proceedings, and thankfully, many of those changes are here to stay. Code of Civil Procedure § 367.75 explicitly allows for remote appearances in probate hearings. While the ‘emergency’ rules have evolved, California law now permanently allows for remote appearances in probate hearings, provided you give notice. However, the judge retains discretion to require specific personal appearances for evidentiary hearings or trials. This means you can’t assume you’ll always be able to Zoom in; preparation and proactive communication are essential. The old days of mandatory in-person attendance are fading, but it’s not a free-for-all.

Where Do You Find the Zoom Link? It’s Not Automatic.

This is the biggest source of frustration for my clients. The Riverside Superior Court does not proactively send out Zoom links. You have to request it. The process varies slightly depending on the division and judge assigned to your case, but the general rule is this: you must email the courtroom clerk specifically assigned to your case.

• Locate Your Case Information: Start by logging into the Riverside Court’s online portal (accessible through the Riverside County website). Find your case number and the name of the assigned courtroom and judge.
• Find the Clerk’s Email: The clerk’s email address is not publicly listed in a central directory. You’ll usually find it on the court’s website under the “Courtroom Information” section for the relevant division. If you can’t locate it, call the main Probate Court line and ask the operator to connect you with the clerk for your assigned courtroom.
• Craft Your Email: Be polite, professional, and specific. State your case number, the hearing date, and politely request the Zoom link. A simple template works well: “Dear [Clerk’s Name], My name is [Your Name] and I am a party in case number [Case Number]. I respectfully request the Zoom link for the hearing scheduled on [Date] at [Time]. Thank you for your assistance.”
• Timing is Crucial: Submit your request at least 3-5 business days before the hearing. Don’t wait until the last minute. Clerks are incredibly busy, and they may not respond immediately.

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Link?

If you haven’t received the Zoom link 24 hours before the hearing, follow up. Don’t assume they received your initial email. Send a polite reminder, and if still no response, call the clerk directly. Ignoring the situation and simply showing up to the courthouse expecting to Zoom in is a recipe for disaster. You risk your hearing being continued, and potentially facing sanctions.

Clearing Probate Notes: The Secret Step That Can Save Your Hearing

Often, even with a Zoom link, hearings get delayed. The problem? Unclear Probate Notes. Most hearing delays are caused by uncleared ‘Probate Notes.’ You cannot simply explain the issue to the judge in court; you MUST file a verified ‘Supplement to Petition’ in writing at least 2-3 court days before the hearing to satisfy the Probate Examiner. These notes highlight issues the Examiner has with your petition. Addressing them before the hearing prevents frustrating delays and demonstrates you’re prepared and responsive.

What Evidence Do You Need for a Remote Hearing?

While remote appearances are allowed, the rules of evidence still apply. Probate Code § 1022 clarifies that standard probate hearings are generally not ‘live witness’ events. An affidavit or verified petition is received as evidence. If you want to put a witness on the stand to testify, the judge will typically continue the matter to a set ‘Evidentiary Hearing’ or trial date. Be prepared to submit any supporting documents electronically, as directed by the court. Ensure they are clearly labeled and organized for easy review.

As a CPA as well as an attorney, I always stress the importance of properly valuing assets for probate. A qualified appraisal, and understanding the potential for a ‘step-up’ in basis, can save your heirs significant capital gains taxes. It’s a nuance that many attorneys miss, but one that can translate into substantial financial benefits.

What If You Want to Object to Something at the Hearing?

Don’t assume you need to file lengthy legal briefs to make your voice heard. Probate Code § 1043 states that you do not need to file a lawyer-written brief to stop a petition at the first hearing. You can appear and object orally. The court must then pause and give you a continuance (usually 30 days) to file your written objection. However, be prepared to articulate your objection clearly and concisely. Rambling or irrelevant arguments will likely be dismissed.

What About the Order After the Hearing?

Many clients are surprised to learn that the judge doesn’t automatically draft the order. California Rule of Court 3.1312 mandates that the prevailing party is responsible for preparing the ‘Proposed Order’ and lodging it with the court before the hearing. If the judge grants your petition but there is no Order in the file to sign, you leave with nothing. I always prepare a proposed order for my clients to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

What if You Miss the Hearing?

Missing a hearing can have serious consequences. Probate Code § 1220 dictates that if you missed a hearing because you weren’t told about it, the order may be void. The petitioner has a strict duty to mail the Notice of Hearing (Form DE-120) to all interested persons at least 15 days prior. A ‘Proof of Service’ missing from the file will stop the hearing immediately. This is why diligent communication and documentation are paramount.

What separates an efficient California probate process from a drawn-out conflict over authority and assets?

California probate is designed to provide court-supervised transfer of property, yet cases often break down when authority is unclear, required steps are missed, or disputes arise over assets, notice, and fiduciary conduct. When the process is misunderstood, families can face avoidable delay, escalating conflict, and increased exposure to creditor issues, hearings, or litigation before the estate can close.

Ultimately, the difference between a routine distribution and a protracted legal battle often comes down to preparation. By anticipating the demands of the Probate Code and addressing potential friction points with beneficiaries and creditors upfront, fiduciaries can navigate the system with greater confidence and lower liability.

Verified Authority on California Probate Hearings

• Oral Objections (The “Stop” Button): California Probate Code § 1043
  This is the most important statute for beneficiaries. It grants an interested person the right to appear at the hearing and object orally to the petition. Once an oral objection is made, the court generally must continue the hearing to allow time for written objections to be filed.
• Remote Appearances (Zoom/CourtCall): California Code of Civil Procedure § 367.75
  Modern probate hearings are often hybrid. This code section governs the right to appear remotely. While convenient, note that the court can typically require a physical appearance for “evidentiary” hearings where witness credibility is being judged.
• Affidavits as Evidence: California Probate Code § 1022
  Unlike criminal court, probate hearings rely heavily on paper. A verified petition or an affidavit is admissible as evidence in an uncontested probate hearing. This is why “clearing your notes” in writing is more important than your oral argument.
• Notice of Hearing Requirements: California Probate Code § 1220
  The court’s jurisdiction depends on this. The petitioner must mail notice of the hearing at least 15 days in advance to all interested parties. If the “Proof of Service” is not filed or is defective, the judge cannot legally hold the hearing.
• Lodging the Proposed Order: California Rules of Court 3.1312
  A common rookie mistake is showing up without the paperwork. The “Proposed Order” (the document the judge signs) should generally be lodged with the court before the hearing. If the judge approves your petition but has nothing to sign, your Letters cannot be issued.
• Proving the Will (Witnesses): California Probate Code § 8220
  If a Will is contested, or if it is not “self-proving” (lacking a proper attestation clause), the court may require the testimony of a subscribing witness at the hearing to prove the Will is authentic.