On Friday, June 4, 2021, the Eighth Judicial District Court issued Administrative Order 21-04, outlining changes to court procedures regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, as the court ramps up operations.
The order addresses screening protocols, appearances by alternative means, mandatory face coverings, virtual meetings, social distancing, and more.
- Screening: Ill persons, or unvaccinated and unmasked persons are not allowed to enter court facilities.
- Appearances: Appearances by alternate means remain in all case types except bench and jury trials, and in-custody defendants appearing in the lower-level arraignment courtroom.
- Mandatory Face Coverings: Members of the public who are not fully vaccinated must wear face coverings covering their mouths and noses. Those who are fully vaccinated are still encouraged to wear face coverings while in court facilities, but may choose not to do so outside of the courtroom. Regardless of vaccination status, face coverings will be required in courtrooms, jury assembly rooms, and other designated enclosed spaces.
- Meetings: Meetings by phone, video, or email remain preferred.
- Clerk’s Office: The civil/criminal and family clerks’ offices will be open to provide in-person services Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Litigants are encouraged to file electronically when at all possible.
For more information, see Administrative Order 21-04.