Virtual Court

The McKinney Municipal Court offers virtual court appearances that allow defendants to resolve cases at a video hearing using ZOOM on a computer or smart device. 

  • All virtual dockets have a maximum capacity of 10 defendants.
  • If the docket reaches capacity before you are checked in, you will need to appear at a future virtual or in-person docket.


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Gavel with McKinney Virtual Court and Meeting ID Opens in new window

Watch a video of Judge Petty explaining the procedures of the McKinney Virtual Court.

Reasons to Make a Virtual Court Appearance

  • Enter a plea of NOT GUILTY and request a trial by judge or jury
  • Speak with the prosecutor after you enter a plea of Not Guilty 
  • Enter a plea of GUILTY or NO CONTEST
  • Request deferred disposition probation in cases for which that option is not available without a court appearance
  • Appeal to the Judge for a fine reduction
  • Appeal to the Judge for payment terms different from those a clerk can approve
  • Request that the judge lift a City of McKinney warrant
  • Request a different payment due date or amount from that established in a previous judgment or payment plan. Be prepared to explain why a change is required
  • Request more time to complete community service, driving safety course, or other court ordered program
  • Required appearance by State law or Court policy for the charged offense


NOTE: The Court will make every effort to dispose of your case(s) at a Virtual Court Appearance, however that may not be possible in all circumstances.


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Virtual Court Appearances

  • Individuals may appear without an appointment during an Open Docket Session. 
    1. Consult the Court’s calendar for available Open Dockets sessions.
      • September 2021 PDF
      • October 2021 PDF
    2. During an Open Docket Session, visit the McKinney Virtual Courtroom and enter the Meeting ID: 946 6180 1650.
  • Individuals scheduled for a virtual court appearance should go to the McKinney Virtual Courtroom and enter the Meeting ID: 946 6180 1650 at the assigned date and time.
    • If you will NOT be able to appear, you must contact the Court before your scheduled date to discuss options and/or request a reset.


You must have a webcam / built-in camera with sound and video on your device to make a virtual court appearance. The ZOOM app must be installed on the device before the virtual court appearance begins.

Minimum Tech Requirements for Making a Virtual Court Appearance.


McKinney Virtual Court Room

https://txcourts.zoom.us/j/94661801650

Meeting ID: 946 6180 1650


Visitors to the McKinney Virtual Court Room must follow court guidelines.


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Payment Requirements

Unless the Judge specifies otherwise, all amounts ordered to be paid are required to be paid immediately. If the Judge approves an extension to pay in full or a payment plan, the Judge may require immediate down payment. In addition, you will be required to complete a payment application in which you disclose certain financial information, detailed contact information, and references. If the Judge approves an alternative means for you to satisfy the judgment (e.g., community service) a clerk will provide further instructions.


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Virtual Court Appearance Guidelines

  • Virtual Appearances may last up to 60 minutes.
  • If you have a language barrier or disability requiring a special accommodation including translation services, contact the Court at least 72 hours before your Virtual Court Appearance.
  • Visitors are required to adhere to Courtroom Dress Code and Etiquette.
  • Treat Court staff and proceedings with respect at all times.
  • Avoid background noise and inappropriate or distracting background displays.
  • Give your full attention to the proceedings. Turn off and put away all distractions.
  • Recording the proceedings is prohibited.
  • Be patient. Technical issues may arise and cause delays.
  • State law requires court hearings be open to the public; therefore, all Virtual Court Appearances are streamed live to YouTube. Proceedings are not recorded.


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Minimum Tech Requirements for Making a Virtual Court Appearance

  • Device capable of accessing the internet (PC, MAC, Smart Phone, Tablet, etc.)
  • Fast and stable internet connection
  • Attached or built-in camera that will allow the judge to see you
  • Attached or built-in microphone that will allow you to speak to the Judge
  • Attached or built-in speakers that will allow you to hear the judge
  • Working email address from which you can send and receive images or documents
  • Working telephone number at which Court staff can reliably contact you.


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