The criminal proceedings will be heard via the Online Magistrates' Court from today rather than in person because of ongoing coronavirus restrictions.

Chief magistrate Judge Lisa Hannan said the coronavirus pandemic meant courts had to find innovative ways to ensure Victorians could continue to access justice.

"Justice has not changed - it is just the mode of delivery that is different," Judge Hannan said.

"Social distancing will be with us for some time and it is still not possible for people to gather in our court buildings.

"The health and safety of our judicial officers, staff and court users remains our highest priority, and online hearings provide us with a safe way to ensure we can finalise matters in a timely manner.

"The Online Magistrates' Court will be critical in assisting us to address the backlog of matters that have been adjourned due to coronavirus. As we move towards recovery, we need to ensure we can provide the maximum number of hearings possible for the people of Victoria."

Anyone with a matter due to be heard at a regional court should not attend court in person but must go to the Magistrates' Court of Victoria website and complete a form to arrange an online hearing.

IN OTHER NEWS

Once this is received, the matter will be scheduled for an OMC hearing or finalised on the papers by a judicial officer.

OMC hearings occur using the WebEx platform and parties can appear before the judicial officer from a computer, tablet or mobile phone.

Anyone with a pending court matter should go to mcv.vic.gov.au for further information.