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State and Federal Civil Courts

Interactive Map - Click a state to view its contents

This information is intended to inform firm clients and friends about legal developments, including recent decisions of various courts and administrative bodies, in a rapidly changing, uncertain environment. This information may not constitute the most complete or up-to-date legal or other information and not all sources can be validated. Nothing in this Interactive Map should be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion, and readers should not act upon the information contained in this Interactive Map without seeking the advice of legal counsel.

Alabama

Federal court reactions

  • Eleventh circuit:  As of August 14, 2020, access to the Elbert P. Tuttle Courthouse and John C. Godbold Federal Building is restricted. See General Order No. 46. Panels are authorized to hear oral arguments by audio or video conferencing and such arguments will be live-streamed to the public at no cost. See Amended General Order No. 45.
  • Northern district:  The prohibition of conducting hearings and conferences in the courthouses originally entered on March 17, 2020, has been terminated. The district and magistrate judges shall individually determine when it is appropriate to conduct such in-person hearings on a case by case basis. See general order 2020-07 for details.
  • Middle district:  All jury trials and corresponding trial deadlines scheduled from March 17, 2020, through April 16, 2020, are continued. No jurors will be summoned for civil or criminal jury trials during this period. Any requirements for delivering paper copies are suspended until further notice. Access to courthouses is restricted to judges, court staff, members of the media, and visitors with official business with the court. Attorneys delivering required filings, pleadings, and briefs must use the drop box located outside. See Order & Order. See court information for details.
  • Southern district:  Visitor restrictions in place. No orders addressing closures/procedures. See court information for details.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide: State of emergency for the judicial branch of the state is extended until further notice. All administrative orders in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, except for orders pertainig to briefing and filing deadlines, are extended and shall remain in effect. Subject to the approval of the presiding circuit judge of each circuit, in-person hearings in the circuit courts, district courts, juvenile courts, municipal courts, and probate courts are authorized to recommence after May 15, 2020. Jury trials remain suspended until September 14, 2020. See Administrative Order No. 7 for details. 
  • Supreme and appellate courts: Effective June 3, 2020, the Heflin-Torbert Judicial Building is open to the general public, with the exception that building tours will continue to be suspended until further notice by the Court or the Chief Justice. See Order for details.
  • Lower state courts: Each lower court has its own standing owner addressing court closures, cancellations, and appearance postponements.

 

Alaska

Federal court reactions

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Alaska: Jury trials resumed March 1, 2022. Visitor restrictions imposed. Mask mandate was rescinded March 3, 2022 (MGO 22-07), July 5, 2022 (MGO 22-11), and re-rescinded July 13, 2022 (MGO 22-12). On July 22, 2022, the Court announced that it would follow CDC recommendations for indoor masking. See Miscellaneous General Orders available at COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and Court Operations. NOTE: The District of Alaska has not issued any COVID-related updates since July 22, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).

State court reactions 

Arizona

Federal court reactions

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Arizona: Flagstaff Courthouse will be closed to the public except for those court proceedings, such as initial appearances, deemed necessary by the court.  See order 20-17, order 20-15 , 20-16, order 20-18 and order 20-30 for further details.  Courts will begin limited in-person proceedings.  See order 20-26 and order 20-30 for additional details.

State court reactions 

Arkansas

Federal court reactions 

  • Eighth circuit:  The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference through March 2021 using Microsoft Teams.  See notice for more information. Access to both the Eagleton Courthouse and the Burger Courthouse remains limited. Boht the St. Louis and the St. Paul Clerk's offices remain closed to the public. Requirement to file paper copies is active.
  • Eastern district: All jury trials between March 18, 2020, and April 30, 2020, are continued.  Further continuances will be handled by each presiding judge.  Judges will continue to hold hearings, conferences, and bench trials in civil and criminal cases, but will do so by telephone or videoconference when practicable. Check with individual judge. Certain criminal hearings will be conducted by video teleconference or telephone. Felony pleas and sentencing will be either continued or conducted  by video teleconference or telephone. If emergency conditions do not abate in the next ninety days, the Court will review the authorizations no later than June 29, 2020. The Richard Sheppard Arnold United States Courthouse is open to the public.  See Order, Order, and Order Three. See court information for details.  
  • Western district: All trials (both bench and jury) scheduled from March 17, 2020, through May 1, 2020, are continued and will be rescheduled by the presiding judge. All civil hearings or other court proceedings, including settlement conferences, will take place as scheduled or by videoconference at the discretion of the judge until further order of the court. Visitor restrictions imposed. Business hours reduced to 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. See Order & Order. See court information for details.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide: All in-person proceedings in all appellate, circuit, and district courts are suspended from March 18, 2020, through May 15, 2020 (with exceptions). All oral arguments before the Arkansas Supreme Court and Arkansas Court of Appeals are canceled.  Jury panels suspended until May 1, 2020. Filing deadlines remain in place.  Judges are encouraged to utilize all available technologies to conduct hearings.  All summons to participate in jury panels are suspended though June 30, 2020.  The Courts and Administrative Office of the Courts, the Justice Building will be closed until further notice.   The Clerk’s office shall remain open for official business. All previously announced uspensions will remain in effect until further notice.  Time requirements under Arkansas Rules 4(i), 33(b), 34(b), and 36(a) and District Court Rule 3 are supsended until further notice.  Preparation for Returning to In-Person Proceedings Order issued on May 1, 2020. On May 18, Arkansas courts in all divisions will resume hearings with certain measures to combat the spread of the disease to the public.  See Order, Order, Order,  Order,  Order Re: Preparations for Returning to In-Person Proceedings, and Order Re: Resuming Operations.  See court information for details. 
  • Supreme court:  The Justice Building will be closed to the public from 5:00 p.m. March 19, 2020, until further notice. The Clerk’s office shall remain open for official business. Case filing deadlines have not been extended.  May 18, Arkansas  courts in all divisions will resume hearings with certain measures to combat the spread of the disease to the public.  See court information for details.
  • Lower state courts: Each lower court has its own standing owner addressing court closures, cancellations, and appearance postponements.  On May 18, Arkansas  courts in all divisions will resume hearings with certain measures to combat the spread of the disease to the public.See here for specific county division closures and updates. 

California

Federal court reactions

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • Northern district: In-person hearing suspended through February 16, 2021. New safety protocols effective June 1, 2020. See notice for details. Hearings will be conducted either by teleconference or video conference until further notice. 
  • Central district: Courthouses closed to public for most hearings. All hearings in civil cases will be conducted remotely. No jury trials will be conducted in civil cases See notice for further information.
  • Eastern district: Courthouse closed to public. All civil matters will be decided on papers unless judge determines hearing is necessary, in which case hearing will take place via telephone or videoconference. See court information for details.
  • Southern district: Courthouse closed to public. Jury trials continued but judges may continue to hold hearings, conferences and bench trials in their discretion.  See order and court information for details.

State court reactions 

  • California supreme court:  In-person oral argument suspended and counsel to appear remotely via video, telephone conference or other electronic means.  See news release for details. Expanded e-filing rules adopted. See website for details. Further updates to be posted here.  
  • 1st district court of appeal: All in person oral argument sessions in the Court of Appeal, First District, are suspended. Counsel who choose to present oral argument must do so via video conference. Further updates to be posted here. 
  • 2nd district court of appeal: The court will continue to receive correspondence and filings both via paper and electronically. In-person oral argument is suspended. Counsel will appear remotely via video conference, by telephone conference, or by other electronic means as available and arranged by the clerk's office. Further updates posted here. 
  • 3rd district court of appeal: All oral arguments will be conduted via videoconference.  See announcement for details. 
  • 4th district court of appeal:  Court access limited. All in-perosn oral argument is suspended until further notice. See announcement for details. 
  • 5th district court of appeal: In-person oral argument suspended and counsel to appear via CourtCall.  See announcement for details. 
  • 6th district court of appeal: Oral argument sessions are being conducted telephonically. See announcement for details. 
  • Lower state courts: 
    • Alameda county: Limited access to court. Hearing conducted remotely. Further updates posted here.  
    • Alpine county: Civil matters will be heard as scheduled by telephone conferencey. See notice for further details.  
    • Amador county:  All calendars will be conducted remotely if possible. Further updates posted here. 
    • Butte county:  Limited access to courthouse. Jury trials continued. Further updates to be posted here.
    • Calaveras county:  Court hours reduced. Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Colusa county:   Court will continue limited operations to the public until further notice. Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Contra Costa county: Limited access to courthouse until February 26, 2021. Civil hearing conducted remotely. Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Del Norte county: Limited court access.  Court clerk’s office filing counters closed until further notice. Limited court access. Further updates posted here. 
    • El Dorado county:  Clerk's counters closed to the public.  See notice for details.  Time for computing trial deadlines modified. See order for details. Further updates to be posted here.  
    • Fresno county: All courtrooms under reduced operation. Further updates posted here. 
    • Glenn county:  Court access limited Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Humboldt county: Court closed with limited exceptions.  Beginning March 23, 2030 and continung for at least 30 days thereafter, the court will conduct limited hearings and operations.  See press release for details.  April 16, 2020 through May 15, 2020 are deemed court holidays for purposes of CCP 12 and 12a. See order. Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Imperial county:  Court closed with limited exceptions in El Centro courthouse.  All civil proceedings will be rescheduled.  No jury trials will be held for at least the next 30 days.  See announcements for details and further updates. 
    • Inyo county:   All civil law and motion matters, case management conferences, mandatory settlement conferences, and unlawful detainer hearings scheduled between March 23, 2020 and May 1, 2020 will be re-set. Court will liberally grant continuances.  April 18, 2020 through MAy 13, 2020 are deemed court holidays for purposes of calculating time. See press release, order and second order for details.  Further updates to be posted here.  
    • Kern county: Only limited matters will be heard.  All other hearings will be rescheduled.  April 1, 2020 through April 30, 2020 are deemed holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers under CCP 12 and 12a. See general order for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Kings county: Courthouse closed to public  for most purposes. Civil trials to be continued.  Clerk's window's closed to the public.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See press release and general order for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Lake county: Court closed except for time-sensitive and essential functions through May 1, 2020.  April 2, 2020 to May 1, 2020 are deemed holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers under CCP 12 and 12a. See order for details. The court will call and hear civil matters previously set via telephone starting May 4, 2020.Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Lassen county: Court access limited.  All jury trials scheduled between March 23, 2020 and April 30, 2020 are vacated.   Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Los Angeles county: Courts closed for  non-essential and non-emergency functions through May 12, 2020.  All unlawful detainer matters are continued. All civil trials scheduled through May 12, 2020 will be continued to a date after June 22, 2020.  Visitor restrcitions imposed.  See announcement and timeline for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Madera county:  Visitor restrictions. Continuances liberally granted. Non-essential services suspended.  Civil trials being continued on a rolling basis for 8 weeks from the currently scheduled date. More information can be found here. 
    • Marin county: Closed for all non-essential matters until May 29, 2020.   Certain statutory deadlines extended.  All civil matters, hearings and trials scheduled within 90 days of March 16, 2020 will be continued.  Civil law and motions calendars to be heard at the discretion of the assigned judge.  More information available here. 
    • Mariposa county:  The court is substantially closed through April 19, 2020. All civil jury trials set between March 17, 2020 and May 5, 2020 will be continued and re-set to a date agreeable to all counsel.  Court will liberally grant continuances in all matters.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See notice and standing order for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Mendocino county:  All jury trials through May 18, 2020 are suspended and shall be continued at least 60-days.  Counsel in all civil matters scheduled between March 17, 2020 and May 29, 2020 should appear via CourtCall. See order details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Merced county: Courthouse access limited. All hearings will be telephonic or conducted via videoconferences. Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Modoc county: Counsel in all civil matters scheduled before May 29, 2020 should appear via CourtCall.  See order and second order for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Mono county: Court close to public except for time-sensitive and essential functions. See order for details. More information available here. 
    • Monterey county:  Courthouse closed for nonessential functions.   Non-emergency civil matters during the shelter in place order period are not being heard and will be reset.  See order for details.  Further update to be posted here.  
    • Napa county: Court closed for all non-essentail functions through May 29, 2020.  The court has declared March 18, 2020 through May 29, 2020 a court holiday for purposes of computing the time for filing papers with the court under Code of Civil Procedure sections 12 and 12a. Beginning Monday, May 4, 2020, the court will begin processing civil stipulations with proposed orders/judgments. All civil hearing dates through May 29, 2020 are continued. See website for details. Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Nevada county:  Court hearings only limited matters through May 15, 2020 See notice and order for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Orange county: Court closed to public, including attorneys, until at least April 24, 2020.  All non-emergency civil hearing dates set during next 60 days are vacated and will be reset. See announcement  and amended order for  details.
    • Placer county:  Court substantially closed to the public. Court hearing only critical matters through May 8, 2020. Only filings related to critical matters will be accepted. See order for more details. 
    • Plumas county:  No changes to normal operations.  Updates to be posted here. 
    • Riverside county:   Some court locations closed. Court operating under reduced hours to handle limited emergency matters.  Court only hearing emergency matters through April 17, 2020. Civil trials suspended until May 25, 2020.  Hearings to be conducted by telephone.  See press release for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • Sacramento county: All courtrooms closed except Department 47 through April 16, 2020. March 20 through March 30, 2020 to be considered court holidays for all purposes except certain emergency matters.  See notice and letter for details. Court closure extended through April 16, 2020. See order. 
    • San Benito county:  Civil trials, unlimited civil motions, limited civil motions, small claims hearings, case management conferences and mandatory settlement conferences through May 4, 2020 will be rescheduled.  See notice for details.  Further updates to be posted here. 
    • San Bernardino county: Court closed for non-emergency matters through April 30, 2020. Only emergency hearings will go forward, all other hearings will be continued. March 17 through April 30, 2020 will be deemed court holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers with the court pursuant to CCP 12 and 12a See announcement for details.
    • San Diego county: Court closed to public. All non-emergency services suspended through May 22, 2020. April 6, 2020 through May 22, 2020 will be deemed court holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers with the court pursuant to CCP 12 and 12a. See order for details. Additional updates posted here. 
    • San Francisco county:  All civil trials through June 1, 2020 are vacated and will be reset. All unlawful detainer proceedings stayed through June 19, 2020. March 18 through June 1, 2020 will be deemed court holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers with the court pursuant to CCP 12 and 12a  See order and  website for details. 
    • San Joaquin county:  Courthouses closed to public for general business except for limited purposes.    All civil proceedings, including trials are being continued on a rolling basis. Wednesday, March 18, 2020 through Friday, May 27, 2020, inclusive, for purposes of computing time for filing papers under Code of Civil Procedure sections 12 and 12a are deemed holidays.  See order for details and further updates here. 
    • San Luis Obispo county:  Courthouse access limited. Civil department reopening May 8, 2020.  See notices  and website for details and further updates.  
    • San Mateo county: All trials suspended until April 13, 2020. March 16 through May 14, 2020 will be deemed court holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers with the court pursuant to CCP 12 and 12a. Many civil motions hearings rescheduled. New civil motions can be filed starting June 1, 2020. See order and website for details.  
    • Santa Barbara county:  Most courtrooms closed. All non-emergency services suspended through May 23, 2020. March 30 through May 23, 2020 will be deemed court holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers with the court pursuant to CCP 12 and 12a. Statutory deadlines and temporary restraining orders extended by not more than 30 days. All non-emergency civil matters set through May 23, 2020 will be reset.  See order for more information. Further updates posted here. 
    • Santa Clara county: All non-essential functions suspended.  March 30, 2020 to May 29, 2020 are deemed holidays for purposes of filing papers under CCP 12 and 12a.  Non-emergency civil matters, trials, and settlement conferences are being continued. See order for details. Further updates posted here. 
    • Santa Cruz county: The court is continuing most civil and probate matters set through June 12, 2020. All civil trials set through August 31, 2020 will be continued. More information availabe here. 
    • Shasta county: "Soft" court reopening set for May 4, 2020. Many hearings to be conducted remotely. No jury trials will be conducted. See press release for detals. 
    • Sierra county: Courthouse closed until further notice. See announcement for details.
    • Siskiyou county: Courthouse closed through May 29, 2020.  All jury trials scheduled to commence through May 29 2020 are vacated. Most non-emergency civil case hearings set through May 29, 2020 will be continued unless there is a critical issue requiring a case be heard as currently set. Unlawful detainer and foreclosure injunctions will be rescheduled. See order for details.  
    • Solano county: Trials and hearings through May 28, 2020 to be rescheduled.  May 1 through May 28, 2020 will be deemed court holidays for purposes of computing time for filing papers with the court pursuant to CCP 12 and 12a. See emergency order for details. More information availale here. 
    • Sonoma county: Courthouse closed through May 31, 2020 except for critical calendars and functions.  Civil division will resume limited calendars starting week of May 11, 2020. See order for details. 
    • Stanislaus county:  All non-emergency services suspended.  Court will reschedule and provide notice for all civil trials except unlawful detainer; case management conferences; mandatory settlement conference and law and motions matters.  See public notice for details.
    • Sutter county:  All non-emergency services suspended through April 10, 2020.  All civil case management conferences betwen March 20, 2020 and April 10, 2020 vacated.  Jurors need not appear.  See COVID-19 information for details.
    • Tehama county: Courthouse closed through June 1, 2020.  All civil matters set during this time-period to be rescheduled. See press release for details.
    • Trinity county:  Court closed to public.  See announcement for details.
    • Tulare county:  Court substantially closed to public through May 12, 2020.  All civil trials and hearings set through May 12, 2020 will be continued.  See announcement and website for details.
    • Tuolumne county:  Public access to court limited. Court has reduced operations to essential functions only.  See press release for details. Furthe details posted here.
    • Ventura county: Limited operations through May 12, 2020.  The majority of courtrooms and all clerk's offices will remain closed.  Civil trials and non-emergency matters suspended 90 days effective March 20, 2020.  See press release for details.
    • Yolo county:  Courthouse closed for non-essential functions. Hearings to be conducted remotely .  See order and announcements for details.
    • Yuba county: Court reopened starting May 1, 2020. Further updates posted here. 

Colorado

Federal court reactions 

  • Tenth circuit:  As of June 15, 2020, the Byron White U.S. Courthouse reopened to the public who have pending business with the court. Those entering the courthouse must follow the protocols posted on the Court's website. As of July 1, 2020, requirement for parties to submit paper copies is reinstated.
  • District of Colorado: All jury trials and in-person bench trials through February 26, 2021 with the exception of certain pilot trials authorized by the chief judge, continued. Visitor restrictions imposed. 

 State court reactions

  • Colorado supreme court:  No changes to court operations due to COVID-19.  Pro se parties may file by fax or email.  Further updates to be posted here.
  • Colorado court of appeals: All oral argumentstrhrough "fall 2020" to be conducted remotely via WebEx.  Counsel will be contacted for instructions.  The court will live stream all arguments.  Further updates to be posted here. 
  • Lower state courts:  County-by-county orders and information available here.  

Connecticut

Federal court reactions

  • Second circuit:  Current conditions related to the Covid pandemic require that counsel appear with no more than one colleague to assist with the argument. Pro se litigants also may be accompanied by no more than one person in the courtroom. Individuals who arrive at the courthouse for argument must meet the health screening requirements and entrance protocols specified at the entrance to the building. All persons must wear a mask at all times in the building, including in the courtroom and during oral argument. See court information for more details.
  • District of Connecticut: Jury trials resumed February 1, 2022 — See General Order Re: Court Operations (1/3/22) and court information for details. Mask requirements vary depending on CDC transmission levels. See General Order Re: Court Operations (5/19/22) and General Order Re: Court Operations (5/9/22). NOTE: The District of Connecticut has not issued any COVID-related updates since May 19, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).

State court reactions  

  • Statewide: Jury trials resumed June 1, 2021 — See court information for details. Mask guidance appears to track CDC guidelines based on locality. See also Guide to Remote Hearings For Attorneys and Self-Represented Parties and General Guidelines for the Use of Remote Proceedings Post-Covid (May 27, 2022). NOTE: Connecticut has not issued any COVID-related updates since May 27, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).
  • Supreme and appellate courts: The Supreme Court and Appellate Court have commenced videoconference oral arguments. See Notice. With the agreement of all counsel of record, fully briefed and ready cases may be submitted for disposition based solely on the briefs. No appellate pre-argument conferences will be held. Effective June 10, 2020, the prohibition on paper filing of briefs was lifted, and several other modifications have been made. See Notice.

Delaware

Federal court reactions 

  • Third circuit:  Court remains open and operational.  The clerk's office is conducting remote operations.  The dropbox will not be available, but parties may continue to file electronically and email documents to the clerk's office.  Parties may email documents that cannot otherwise be electronically filed and may continue to submit filings via mail.  Oral arguments are being streamed. See notice, order and court information for details.
  • District of Delaware: On May 24, 2022, the Court announced that it will be transitioning to Phase 4 (i.e., normal operations) of the June 15, 2020 Re-Opening Guidelines. Individual judges may impose mask and spacing requirements as they see fit. See COVID-Related Standing Orders and Transitioning to Phase 4 (5/24/22) and court information for details. NOTE: The District of Delaware has not issued any COVID-related updates since May 24, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).

State court reactions 

Florida

Federal court reactions 

  • Eleventh circuit:As of August 14, 2020, access to the Elbert P. Tuttle Courthouse and John C. Godbold Federal Building is restricted. See General Order No. 46. Panels are authorized to hear oral arguments by audio or video conferencing and such arguments will be live-streamed to the public at no cost. See Amended General Order No. 45.
  • Northern district:  Courthouse visitors must practice social distancing.  See order. See court information for details.
  • Middle district:  Court remains open; visitor questionnaire must be completed, and all visitors to courthouse must wear face masks in public areas and practice social distancing. See court order for details. See court information for details.
    • Jacksonville division: All jury trials are suspended through May 31, 2020. Judges have discretion to postpone any status conference. Any in-person meetings and conferral requirements are suspended, and these may be conducted by telephone or video without any further need for application to the court. The requirement to deliver courtesy copies is suspended until further notice.  See Memorandum, Memorandum, Order, and Order. See court information for details.
    • Orlando division:  Judges have discretion to conduct hearings, conferences, and bench trials, but are encouraged to use telephone or video conference when practicable. See Order. All visitors to courthouse must wear face masks in public areas and practice social distancing. See Order. See court information for details.
    • Fort Myers division: Judges have discretion to conduct hearings, conferences, and bench trials, but are encouraged to use telephone or video conference when practicable. See Order and Order. All visitors to courthouse must wear face masks in public areas and practice social distancing. See Order. See court information for details.
  • Southern district:  All jury trials scheduled to begin on or after March 30, 2020, are continued until April 5, 2021.  Judges have discretion to hold hearings, conferences, and bench trials, but telephone and video conferencing are encouraged.  See Order. All visitors to courthouse must wear face masks in public areas and practice social distancing. See Order. See court information for details. 

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:  
    • Oaths may be administered via remote audio-video equipment. Jury selection and jury trials are suspended until 30 days after a chief judge of a judicial circuit has determined that the circuit or a county within the circuit has transitioned to Phase 2 pursuant to Fla. Admin. Order No. AOSC20-32. Remote electronic proceedings are encouraged, and all rules to the contrary are suspended. These procedures are in effect until further notice. See order, AOSC20-23. See statewide emergency orders for details.
  • Supreme court:  Oral arguments are being conducted via remote teleconferencing.
  • Intermediate appellate courts: 
    • 1st district court:  Oral arguments are being conducted remotely  See court website for details.
    • 2nd district court:  Oral arguments are being conducted remotely.  See court website for details.
    • 3rd district court:  Oral arguments being conducted remotely. See court website for details.
    • 4th district court:  Oral arguments being conducted remotely. See court website for details.
    • 5th district court:  Oral arguments being conducted in-person.  See court website for details.
  • Lower state courts: Widespread changes to court procedures, which vary by jurisdiction. See statewide list of court responses for details.

Georgia

Federal court reactions

  • Eleventh circuit: As of August 14, 2020, access to the Elbert P. Tuttle Courthouse and John C. Godbold Federal Building is restricted. See General Order No. 46. Panels are authorized to hear oral arguments by audio or video conferencing and such arguments will be live-streamed to the public at no cost. See Amended General Order No. 45.
  • Northern district: All jury trials, including any trial specific deadlines, are continued through January 3, 2021. See Eighth Amended General Order 20-01.  Also see court information for details.
  • Middle district: Jury trials suspended through October 19, 2020. Judges will continue to hold hearings, conferences, and bench trials. See Order. See court information for details.
  • Southern district: Only persons on official business shall be admitted to the courthouse. Judges will continue to hold hearings, conferences, and jury and bench trials.  See Order. See court information for details.

State court reactions

  • Supreme court: The suspension of jury trials shall remain in effect and until further order.  The Chief Judge of each superior court, in his or her discretion after consulting with the District Attorney, may resume grand jury proceedings in person or remotely (where consistent with law) on or after September 10, 2020, if doing so can be done safely and in compliance with public health guidance based on local conditions. Deadlines for jury trial proceedings (including statutory speedy trial demands), deadlines for grand jury proceedings, and deadlines calculated by reference to the date of a civil or criminal jury trial or grand jury proceeding shall remain suspended and tolled.  All other deadlines shall be reimposed effective July 14, 2020 as explained in the order.  All courts should continue to use and increase the use of technology to conduct remote judicial proceedings.  Courts have discretion to conduct in-person judicial proceedings, but only in compliance with public health guidance and with the requirements of the United States and Georgia constitutions and applicable statutes and court rules.  See Order. See Supreme Court Information for details.

  • Court of appeals (intermediate): Pursuant to Supreme Court Order, all deadlines reimposed effected July 14.  The Court of Appeals is fully operational.  August and September oral arguments will be held by video conference only.   See Order. See court information for details.

  • Lower state courts: See emergency orders for specific jurisdictions within Georgia.

Hawaii

Federal court reactions 

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Hawaii:  Beginning March 15, 2021, the courthouse and clerk's office are open to the public during normal business hours.  Non-jury trials may proceed within the discretion of the presiding judge.  Limited civil jury trials may commence effective April 1, 2021. Visitor restrictions will be imposed.  Each presiding judge will determine whether to conduct hearings and non-jury trials in-person or by telephone/Zoom.  See May 18 guidance; June 1 order; Trial Guidelines; July 28 order; August 24 order; November 16 order; March 15, 2021 order.

State court reactions

Idaho

Federal court reactions

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Idaho: Most courts currently are accessible to parties attending hearings but otherwise closed to the public.  Visitor restrictions will be imposed.  Email filing procedures for pro se litigants that previously had been adopted to accommodate pro se litigants during the pandemic have been revoked, and standard pro se filing procedures are reinstituted. Jury trials may now be conducted subject to certain safety protocols.  See General Order 388; General Order 390; General Order 391. 

State court reactions 

Illinois

Federal court reactions 

  • Seventh circuit:  All cases scheduled for oral argument through April 30, 2021, will be argued either telephonically or by Zoom Video Communications, with audio livestreamed to YouTube.   See Order Regarding COVID-19 for details. As of February 18, 2021, persons entering the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse and the Stanley J. Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse must wear a face covering. Court updates and information here.
  • Northern district of Illinois: No motions may be noticed for in-person presentment; the presiding judge will notify parties of the need, if any, for a hearing by electronic means or in-court proceeding.  Paper courtesy copy requirement suspended.  All jury trials are suspended until April 5, 2021.  All civil hearings and bench trials shall be conducted by remote meetings unless an in-person hearing is required by law. See ninth amended general order 20-0012 (effective through February 16, 2021) and General Order 20-0033 for details.  Further COVID updates are available here.  All courthouse visitors must wear facemasks.
  • Central district of Illinois:  Facecoverings required to visit courthouse. Civil jury trials are supended to be rescheduled by the presiding judge to a date after March 23, 2021.  In person hearings may commence but the Court will continue to utilize remote hearings in accordance with Amended General Order 20-23. See Sixth Amended General Order 20-21, Seventh Amended General Order 20-21, and Eighth Amended General Order 20-21 which are effective until March 23,2021, for details.  Website for updates here.
  • Southern district of Illinois: Courthouses in East St. Louis and Benton are closed to the public absent permission by the clerk, judge; face masks are required for entry.  All civil jury trials are canceled to be reset by the presiding judge.  Civil hearings to be conducted reomotely absent in person permission by the court.  Bench trials may be conducted at the presiding judge's discretion.  Prior COVID-related time extentions have lapsed and are not extended further.  See administrative order no. 266 (Sixth Amended AO) and court news for details.

State court reactions 

  • All courts.  COVID-19 Information and Updates can be found here.  Many Illinois courts are open for emergencies only. Additionally, the Illinois Supreme Court has issued extensions for deadlines in the Appellate Court and Supreme Court.  Please consult the above website for up to date information on local courts.

Indiana

Federal court reactions

  • Seventh circuit: All cases scheduled for oral argument through April 30, 2021, will be argued either telephonically or by Zoom Video Communications, with audio livestreamed to YouTube.   See Order Regarding COVID-19 for details. As of February 18, 2021, persons entering the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse and the Stanley J. Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse must wear a face covering. Court updates and information here.
  • Northern district:  Courthouses opened on July 6, 2020.  Clerk’s office open by telephone and email only, otherwise it is closed to the public.  All jury trials are continued and will be rescheduled to a date after March 1, 2021, unless judge decides otherwise.  All in-person civil court proceedings will be converted to telephonic or videoconference proceedings. Case-by-case exceptions to conduct non-jury, in-person proceedings is at the discretion of the judge.  See Order 2021-04. See court information for details.
  • Southern district: All in person jury trials are continued until at least April 5, 2021.  Proceedings otherwise shall continue to proceed by telephone or videoconference. See 1/14/21 Order & court information for details.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide courts:  Use of remote telephonic/video proceedings encouraged; in-person proceedings must be conducted with all COVID-19 precautions.  Jury trials are suspended until March 1, 2021. See court information.

Iowa

Federal court reactions

  • Eighth Circuit: The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference through March 2021 using Microsoft Teams.  See notice for more information. Access to both the Eagleton Courthouse and the Burger Courthouse remains limited. Boht the St. Louis and the St. Paul Clerk's offices remain closed to the public. Requirement to file paper copies is active.
  • Northern district of Iowa:  Court hours limited to 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.   Jury trials will be subject to social distancing and other modified procedures.  Bench trials and hearings shall proceeds as scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Parties are encouraged to participate by telephone or video conference as feasible.  All civil deadlines remain in place.   Visitor restrictions have been imposed, and masks must be worn at all times. See Administrative Orders.
  • Southern district of Iowa:  Non-jury trials and other hearings may be conducted at the discretion of each judge, giving deference to the concerns of litigants and witnesses.  See trial order, Administrative Order 20-AO-8-P, Administrative Order 20-AO-14-P, and Administrative Order 20-AO-17-P for details.   In light of the CARES Act's passage, the court further authorizes the use of videoconferencing and telephone conferencing for all events listed in Section 15002(b) of the legislation. See March 30, 2020 administrative order for details.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See Administrative Order 20-AO-16. 

State court reactions 

Kansas

Federal court reactions 

  • Tenth circuit:As of June 15, 2020, the Byron White U.S. Courthouse reopened to the public who have pending business with the court. Those entering the courthouse must follow the protocols posted on the Court's website. As of July 1, 2020, requirement for parties to submit paper copies is reinstated.
  • District of Kansas:  New guidlines adopted for conducting in-person hearings under certain circumstances.  See administrative order 2020-11 for further details.

State court reactions

Kentucky

Federal court reactions 

  • Sixth circuit:  As of April 7, 2020, the Potter Stewart Courthouse in Cincinnati is closed to the public. The Clerk’s office will continue to process all electronically filed documents but will not process incoming mail or accept deliveries.  In-person (and video) oral arguments to resume starting June 2021.  See notice and court information for details.
  • Eastern district:  Any matter involving an attorney or party who is ill or in a high-risk category may be rescheduled by the judge.  Courthouses open to public under restricted hours. See general order 20-08, general order 20-06, general order 20-03, and court information for details.  Use of videoconferencing or telephone conferencing for all events listed in section 15002(b) of the CARES Act, H.R. 748 authorized by general order 20-07 . Pursuant to section 15002(b)(3) of the CARES Act, this authorization will remain in effect through July 31, 2020, unless terminated earlier. See general order 20-10 for details.
  • Western district: All trials scheduled to begin on or before July 10, 2020, are continued and shall be rescheduled by separate order of the presiding judge. Individual judges may continue trial-specific deadlines in civil cases at their discretion. In-court proceedings in civil cases may resume bu order of the presiding judge effective June 15, 2020. See general order 20-11 for details.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:  Effective April 1, 2020 through May 31, 2020, all judicial facilities are closed to in-person services except for emergency hearings and a few other exceptions. See order and amended order for details.  Time to file notices and motions pursuant to CR 73.02, CR 76.20, CR 76.36, and to file briefs pursuant to CR 76.12 in the Supreme Court of Kentucky and the Kentucky Court of Appeals between May 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020, is extended by 30 days. All other pleadings shall be filed within usual timeframes unless a timely motion for extension is granted. See Amended Order 2020-29 for details.

Louisiana

Federal court reactions 

  • Fifth circuit:  John Minor Wisdom Building is closed to the public until further notice.  The Court has canceled in person oral arguments scheduled for August 3 - August 6, 2020.  If the panels hear argument susing video and/or audio conferences the Clerk's Office will post a news item and provide links to the audio feeds.  Requirement to file paper copies of filed pleadings and documents suspended until further notice.  See General Order 1,  General Order 2, General Order 3, General Order 4, General Order 5, calendar, and notices for further details.
  • Eastern district:  Effective November 2, 2020, the court is open to the public for limited purposes.  Parties can continue to file documents through the CM/ECF system, by U.S. Mail, or fax.  See General Order.  Order remains in effect until further order.  All civil and criminal trials are suspended until March 1, 2021.  This does not continue pending deadlines.  See order for details.  
  • Middle district:  All civil trials (bench AND jury) may resume as of June 30, 2020, subject to the discretion of the presiding judge.  All civil evidentiary hearings and other in-court hearings and proceedings requiring personal appearances may resume as of June 30, 2020, subject to the discretion of the presiding judge.  See order for details.  Visitor restrictions in place.  See notice for details.  No in-person filings will be accepted and sealed matters shall be filed by fax or electronically signed pleadings sent by PDF to sealedwb@lamd.uscourts.gov.  See order for details.
  • Western district:  Effective March 17, 2020, public access to the clerks office's is suspended until January 3, 2021.  All civil and criminal jury trials may resume on January 4, 2021.  All other hearings, conferences and/or proceedings are subject to the discretion of the individual judge.  See order for details.  

 State court reactions 

  •  Statewide:  Legal deadlines, including liberative prescription periods, preemption periods, and other deadlines applicable to legal proceedings in all courts are suspended until July 5, 2020.  All deadlines in administrative agencies and boards are also suspended until July 5, 2020.  See executive order for details.
  • Supreme court of Louisiana:  As of March 20, 2020, public access is restricted until further notice.  E-filing convenience fees are waived.  See order for details.  
  • Appellate courts:
    • First circuit:  The court is open, but with restricted access.  All filings due during the period of March 12, 2020 through July 5, 2020, or which become due during this period shall be deemed timely if filed on or before July 6, 2020.  See order for details.  
    • Second circuit:  All deadlines suspended through July 5, 2020.  Pleadings due through July 5, 2020 shall be due on or before July 6, 2020.  Oral arguments shall resume in June and July, either in person or by video conference, as directed by the court.  See order for details.  The court will temporarily accept e-filings to 2ndcirc@la2nd.org.  See order for details.  No in-person filings as of March 23, 2020.  See order for details.  
    • Third circuit:  All deadlines suspended through July 5, 2020 and all pleadings timely if filed on or before July 6, 2020.  See order for details. High risk individuals inclusive of individuals who have travelled internationally shall be denied entrance to the court.  With respect to individuals who may be denied entrance, the court encourages those to contact the clerk for rescheduling procedures.  See court information with order for details.  The court is temporarily acceping filings via email to 3rd_filing@la3circuit.org.  See order for details.
    • Fourth circuit:    The court will have limited physical accessibility beginning May 18, 2020.  All filings due between March 12, 2020 and July 5, 2020 shall be deemed timely if filed on or before July 6, 2020.  See order for details.  
    • Fifth circuit:  The court shall reopen to the public on May 18, 2020, subject to restrictions as the court deems necessary to protect the health and safety of court employees and the public.  Filings otherwise due between March 12, 2020 and June 15, 2020 shall be considered timely if filed on or before June 19, 2020.  See order for details.  
  • Trial courts:
    • Each lower court has its own standing order addressing court closures, cancellations, and appearance postponements.  See individual court hyperlinks for details.
    • No jury trials, civil or criminal, shall commence in any state court before June 30, 2020.  The prohibition on conducting in-person procceedings is lifted, and courts are authorized to conduct in-person proceedings on all matters, with measures to limit access to courtrooms and practice social distancing.  All matters should continue to be conducted with the use of video and telephone conferencing whenever possible.  See order for details.  
    • Courts should work with parish clerks to encourage replacing in-person filings with filing by other means.  See order for details. 

Maine

Federal court reactions  

  • First circuit: The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit will hold oral arguments by video conference during the court’s October and November 2021 sessions. Given the continued public health restrictions and limits on public access to the courthouse, the court will also provide live audio access to such arguments. Public access to live audio of the court’s October and November 2021 sessions will be available at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiq_Kg0zEPrjMFK_s-KP5_g/. After the end of each day's arguments, audio recordings of each argument will be available on the court's website. Counsel scheduled for argument during the October and November 2021 court sessions will be receiving additional information and instructions from the Clerk’s Office.
  • District of Maine:   Videoconferencing and teleconferencing available.  Persons planning to attend an in-court hearing are encouraged to read General Order 2021-6 regarding masks, courthouse entry and physical distancing requirements.  See General Orders & court information for more details. 

State court reactions

  • Statewide: Except for limited types of proceedings, all proceedings must proceed remotely via video or telephone.  See court information for details.

Maryland

Federal court reactions 

  • Fourth circuit:   Other than authorized visitors, the Powell Courthouse is closed to the public. Paper copies may be filed in the Lobby; however, persons in contact with COVID-19 are prohibited from accessing the Courthouse for any reason, and others must follow social distancing guidelines. See notice for details.  In-person oral arguments continue to be suspended. See court information for details.  
  • District of Maryland:  All trials scheduled through April 24, 2020 are postponed until further notice and order of the court.   See updated standing order and updated standing order for details. Discovery deadlines are not automatically suspended.  See order regarding discovery proceedings for details.  In-person proceedings limited to Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays.  See COVID Panemdic Procedures Order.  All persons seeking entry to the courthouses must wear masks.  See standing order 2020-10 and standing order 2020-11 for additional details.

State court reactions 

Massachusetts

Federal court reactions  

  • First circuit:  The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit will hold oral arguments by video conference during the court’s October and November 2021 sessions. Given the continued public health restrictions and limits on public access to the courthouse, the court will also provide live audio access to such arguments. Public access to live audio of the court’s October and November 2021 sessions will be available at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiq_Kg0zEPrjMFK_s-KP5_g/. After the end of each day's arguments, audio recordings of each argument will be available on the court's website. Counsel scheduled for argument during the October and November 2021 court sessions will be receiving additional information and instructions from the Clerk’s Office.
  • District of Massachusetts:  Because of COVID-19 health concerns and limited space available in courtrooms, members of the public/media who wish to attend a proceeding can do so remotely via videoconference.  See Court information for details. 

State court reactions See Court system response to Covid-19

  • Massachusetts supreme judicial court: The John Adams Courthouse will be closed to the public until at least Tuesday, April 21, 2020.  Supreme Judicial Court oral arguments scheduled for the week of April 6 – April 10, 2020 will proceed by teleconference as planned.  See court information.
  • Massachusetts court of appeals: Oral argument through month of April 2020 are cancelled indefinitely.  Merits to be decided on briefs.  See court information for details. In lieu of the opportunity to present oral argument, the Appeals Court will accept, but does not expect or require, a supplemental memorandum filed by any party in a case that was previously scheduled for oral argument during April 2020.  See notice for details.
  • Lower state courts:  Each lower court has its own standing order addressing court closures, cancellations, and appearance postponements.  See court information and daily court updates for details.  In addition, the Supreme Judicial Court issued an order that continues to restrict court appearances to emergency matters until at least May 4.  See order for details. Massachusetts trial courts are open for emergency matters, but the courthouses are closed to the public.  See Trial Court Emergency Administrative Order 20-7. 

Michigan

Federal court reactions 

  • Sixth circuit:  As of April 7, 2020, the Potter Stewart Courthouse in Cincinnati is closed to the public.   The Clerk’s office will continue to process all electronically filed documents but will not process incoming mail or accept deliveries.  In-person (and video) oral arguments to resume starting June 2021.  See notice and court information for details.
  • Western district:  Beginning Monday, May 18, 2020, all court facilities in the district will open during regular business hours, with certain restrictions to ensure public safety.  See court information for details.
  • Eastern district:  All in-person appearances are postponed until further court order.   Case-by-case exceptions may be ordered for non-jury matters ion the discretion of the court and counsel. See standing order. The U.S. courthouse in Detroit is closed to the public until further order. See advisory for details.

State court reactions 

  • Michigan supreme court:  Statute of limitations and court deadlines are tolled during any day that falls during the state of emergency declared by the Governor related to COVID-19.  See order for details. All courts are still handling essential functions.  Some courts have closed business operations to the public via local administrative order.  Courts are restricting assemblage population for compliance with social distancing.  See order  and court information for details.
  • Michigan court of appeals: Deadlines for filing documents with the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals will begin running again on June 8, 2020.  Court and clerk's office closed to visitors until further notice.  Filings should be made electronically or  mailed.  See court information and standing orderfor information.
  • Lower state courts:    All jury trials are suspended until June 22, 2020.  See memorandum for details.

Minnesota

Federal court reactions 

  • Eighth circuit:  The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference through March 2021 using Microsoft Teams.  See notice for more information. Access to both the Eagleton Courthouse and the Burger Courthouse remains limited. Boht the St. Louis and the St. Paul Clerk's offices remain closed to the public. Requirement to file paper copies is active.
  • District of Minnesota: Continuity of Operations Plan activated effective March 23 through April 27.  Jury trials suspended until after April 27.  Clerk's intake desk open to assist attorneys and the public by telephone, email or online chat from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Intake desks in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Fergus Falls closed to the public.  Courtesy copy requirement suspended.  See court update, general order 3 and general order 4 for details.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See entrance protocols for details. Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court of the District of Minnesota authorizes the use of videoconferencing, or telephone conferencing if videoconferencing is not reasonably available, with the consent of the defendant or juvenile, after consultation with counsel, for certain events. The General Orders entered by the Court on March 13, 2020, March 17, 2020, March 23, 2020, and March 26, 2020, remain in effect. See general order 5.  Members of the public and press may attend public court hearings remotely via telephone conference.  See general order 6 for details.  Subject to certain exceptions, all individuals seeking to enter the Courthouse must wear a mask or face covering.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:  Court operations continuing under peacetime declaration of emergency.  See administrative order and amended order for details.  Evictions and writs of recovery suspended by executive order starting March 24.  See executive order for details.
  • Minnesota supreme court:  Proceedings to continue as scheduled; courts to implement procedures to allow hearings to continue remotely as appropriate.  Courts may grant reasonable extensions of court rule deadlines to initiate an appeal or a request for review up to 30 days.  See order for details.  Requirement to file paper copies suspended.   See order for details.  More information provided here. 
  • Minnesota court of appeal:  Proceedings to continue as scheduled; courts to implement procedures to allow hearings to continue remotely as appropriate.  Courts may grant reasonable extensions of court rule deadlines to initiate an appeal or a request for review up to 30 days.  See order for details.  Requirement to file paper copies suspended.  See order for details.  Non-essential visits discouraged. 
  • Lower state courts:  No jury trial may commence before June 1.  See Administrative Order No 20-48 for details.  Except as detailed in this link, all court proceedings shall be held by ITV or remote means.  County specific information can be viewed here. 

 

Mississippi

Federal court reactions  

  • Fifth circuit:  John Minor Wisdom Building is closed to the public until further notice.  The Court has canceled in person oral arguments scheduled for August 3 - August 6, 2020. The Court has approved the use of video and/or audio conferences. The Clerk's Office will advise counsel how their case will be handled. The public will be able to access a "live" audio feed of the oral argument proceedings. Requirement to file paper copies of filed pleadings and documents suspended until further notice.  See General Order 1,  General Order 2, General Order 3, General Order 4, General Order 5, calendar, and notices for further details.
  • Southern district:  All civil and criminal jury trials, and associated deadlines are continued through July 31, 2020.  All other in court hearings or proceedings may go forward at the presiding judge's discretion. Videoconferencing and teleconferencing encouraged.  For more information, see court information  and special order.
  • Northern district:  All in person proceedings should be continued or conducted by video or telephone conference if possible.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See standing order and court information for more details. 

State court reactions  

  • Mississippi supreme court:  Jury trials will be held in arenas and auditoriums to protect against COVID-19.  See notice and court information for details. Has ordered that in counties with fewer than four COVID-19 related deaths, jury summonses may be sent out that would be returnable on or after May 18. For other counties, jury summonses should not be sent out with return dates prior to June 15. The court is discouraging in person courthouse contact, and is encourging teleconferencing and videoconferencing. See administrative order 11 for more
  • Lower state courts:  reactions vary by jurisdiction, but the Mississippi supreme court directed courts to stay open while taking safety precautions.  See court information for details. 

Missouri

Federal court reactions 

  • Eighth circuit:  The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference through March 2021 using Microsoft Teams.  See notice for more information. Access to both the Eagleton Courthouse and the Burger Courthouse remains limited. Boht the St. Louis and the St. Paul Clerk's offices remain closed to the public. Requirement to file paper copies is active.
  • Eastern district of Missouri:  All civil procedings through March 14, 2021, will be remote unless directed otherwise by the judge. Further details and updates are available at the Court's COVID-19 Information Center and the Court's December 15, 2020 Order for details. 
  • Western district of Missouri: All civil jury trials scheduled through March 22, 2021 are continued.  All non-emergency hearings through March 22, 2021 are continued, but individual judges may continue to hold hearings, conferences, bench trials at his or her discretion as may be necessary.  See General Order Dated 12/1/20  for details.  See news and announcements for updated orders (here).

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:   Effective August 1, Missouri Supreme Court has issued operational directives to help courts statewide ease COVID-10 restrictions.  Phases are based on local conditions and circumstances.  See website for specific circuit and municipal court phase and details.  Common to all phases:  Proceedings may be conducted remotely; masks or face coverings are required in all public court areas and during all court proceedings, absent good cause shown and except when an individual is alone in a private office; and social-distancing protocols will be followed.

Montana

Federal court reactions 

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Montana:  All five courthouse locations moving to phase 2 of the district's plan for phase resumption of operations effective May 18, 2020.  Under phase 2, the courthouse is open with limited public access.  Civil hearings will proceed remotely or in-person, depending on judicial preference.  Criminal jury trials expected to proceed in Missoula, Billings and Great Falls when phase 3 commences, i.e., no earlier than June 6, 2020.  See administrative order 20-21 for details. 

 State court reactions

  • Montana supreme court:  No changes to court operations.  Further updates to be posted here.
  • Lower state courts: After May 4, 2020, courts should continue to use remote hearing or telephonic hearings for most cases to limit the number of people in the courthouse and courtroom.  Physical distancing in courthouses, courtrooms and offices must be maintained.  A minimum of 6 feet between individuals must be maintained.  Courts are strongly encouraged to require the use of face coverings or masks for people entering the courthouse.  Judges must plan locally for returning to necessary jury trials.  See 4-27-2020 COVID-19 memo for details.  Local "district court virus rules" available here.  

Nebraska

Federal court reactions 

  • Eighth circuit:  The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference through March 2021 using Microsoft Teams.  See notice for more information. Access to both the Eagleton Courthouse and the Burger Courthouse remains limited. Boht the St. Louis and the St. Paul Clerk's offices remain closed to the public. Requirement to file paper copies is active.
  • District of Nebraska:  All jury trials set to commence on or before June 1, 2020 are continued. This continuance is extended to include all proceedings set to begin before July 3, 2020.  See general order no. 2020-09 for details. All civil matters scheduled for an in-court appearance through June 1, 2020 are continued but any hearing where appearance by alternate means has already been made available to the parties will proceed using the alternate mode of appearance. Visitor restrictions imposed.  See general order no. 2020-06, general order no. 2020-05, general order no. 2020-04, general order no. 2020-03, and general order 2020-08 for further details.  Link to all general orders is here.

State court reactions 

  • Nebraska supreme court:  Conducting oral arguments through teleconference for cases listed on the April call.  See press release for details.  No court closures. Emergency preparedness plans and mission essential functions to continue. See order for details.
  • Lower state courts:  No statewide court closures.  Each judicial district is issuing their own orders, including continuances and visitor restrictions.  See emergency status information and link to judicial orders for details.  Douglas County courthouse access restricted.  See order for details.

Nevada

Federal court reactions 

  • Ninth circuit: As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Nevada:  Jury trials have been resumed. Public access to the Clerk's office has expanded, with the intake window reopened effective April 12, 2021.  Public access terminals located inside the Las Vegas and Reno courthouses are currently not available.  Visitor restrictions continue.  The requirement of submitting paper copies for chambers pursuant to LR IC 2-2(g) is still suspended.  However, each presiding judge may direct submission of courtesy copies.  Filings will be processed by CM/ECF, mail, email, or delivery in designated drop boxes.  Documents that cannot be filed by CM/ECF may be submitted by email, at the clerk's office, or by leaving in the drop box.  For further information, please see the Court's Coronavirus information page. 

 State court reactions 

New Hampshire

Federal court reactions

  • First circuit:  The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit will hold oral arguments by video conference during the court’s October and November 2021 sessions. Given the continued public health restrictions and limits on public access to the courthouse, the court will also provide live audio access to such arguments. Public access to live audio of the court’s October and November 2021 sessions will be available at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiq_Kg0zEPrjMFK_s-KP5_g/. After the end of each day's arguments, audio recordings of each argument will be available on the court's website. Counsel scheduled for argument during the October and November 2021 court sessions will be receiving additional information and instructions from the Clerk’s Office.

  •  District of New Hampshire:  The United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire and District Court Clerk’s Office will be open to the public during regular business hours effective June 1, 2021 (21-19).  In addition to a Standing Order (20-25) addressing the status of hearings, criminal jury trials, grand jury, and other events during the COVID-19 pandemic, the court has also entered orders governing civil jury trials and mediations (21-14), videoconference and telephonic hearings (20-7), and in-court hearings (20-27).  Finally, before attempting to enter the Rudman Courthouse, please review the court’s public access restrictions and screening requirements (21-13). See court information for further details.  

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:  Except for limited proceedings, all in-person proceedings in the Circuit, Superior and Supreme Courts are suspended through February 22, 2021 and/or the last day of a Declared State of Emergency.  Courts will proceed telephonically or by video to the extent possible. See court information & 1/28/21 Orders for details.

New Jersey

Federal court reactions

  • Third circuit:  Court remains open and operational.  The clerk's office is conducting remote operations.  The dropbox will not be available, but parties may continue to file electronically and email documents to the clerk's office.  Parties may email documents that cannot otherwise be electronically filed and may continue to submit filings via mail.  Oral arguments are being streamed.  See notice, order and court information for details.
  • District of New Jersey:  The court issued Amended Standing Order 2021-04, which indicated civil jury selections and trials shall resume September 1, 2021; only one civil jury trial may be conduced at each courthouse at a time.  Other provisions of Standing Order 2021-04 remain in effect.  The court also posted about Phase IV Reopening, Protocol, Finance Office Hours in May 2021. For more details, see Standing Orders, COVID-19 recovery guidelines, and notices at the page titled COVID-19: Orders, Procedures, and Changes

State court reactions 

  • Statewide: All state court locations will reopen to the public as of August 2, 2021.  Point of entry protocols will also conclude, though individual court locations may continue to require enhanced measures.  Face masks and social distancing will continue to be required for in-person jury proceedings. For all provisions and details, see orders, notices, and other materials, available at the Supreme Court's COVID-19 update page, where orders and other information about changes in light of COVID-19 can be found.   The Court has also created a COVID-19 "One Stop" page.
  • Superior court: Until further notice, there are no in-person Superior court proceedings (except for limited emergent matters and certain ongoing trials).  As many matters as possible (including case management conferences, motions, and hearings) will be handled by telephone or video conference. See court information for details.
  • Municipal court:  Some municipal courts have begun hearing cases by video or phone. Some municipal court bench trials and hearings could be handled in person if they are too complex to be handled online.  Court offices and most municipal courts are closed for in-person submissions. For details, see Supreme Court's COVID-19 update page,  including the 2/23/21 notice about health and safety precautions in the municipal courts, as well as court information and court closings website.    See also Municipal Court section on COVID-19 "One Stop" page.

New Mexico

Federal court reactions 

  • Tenth circuit:  As of June 15, 2020, the Byron White U.S. Courthouse reopened to the public who have pending business with the court. Those entering the courthouse must follow the protocols posted on the Court's website. As of July 1, 2020, requirement for parties to submit paper copies is reinstated.
  • District of New Mexico: All civil jury trials scheduled to commence before April 10, 2020 are continued pending further order of the court.  Visitor restrictions imposed. See administrative order 20-MC-04-09 and administrative order 20-MC-04-08 for details.

State court reactions 

  • New Mexico supreme court:  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See news releases for details. Subject to certain exceptions, all individuals seeking to enter the Courthouse must wear a mask or face covering. More information can be found here: https://www.nmcourts.gov/news.aspx
  • Lower state courts: Civil jury trials that have not yet started are postponed absent exceptional circumstances. All judges are required to use telephonic or audio-visual attendance for court appearances by attorneys, litigants, witnesses, and the press, unless there is an emergency need for an in-person appearance. Parties may request in-person appearance where necessary. See order. Visitor restrictions implemented.  Effective March 24, 2020, Supreme Court halts eviction orders in landlord-tenant cases. See order.  See court information for details.   

New York

Federal court reactions

  • Second circuit:  Current conditions related to the Covid pandemic require that counsel appear with no more than one colleague to assist with the argument. Pro se litigants also may be accompanied by no more than one person in the courtroom. Individuals who arrive at the courthouse for argument must meet the health screening requirements and entrance protocols specified at the entrance to the building. All persons must wear a mask at all times in the building, including in the courtroom and during oral argument. See court information for more details.
  • Northern district:   Face coverings required in public areas of courthouse. See general order #61 and court information for details.
  • Eastern district: Further continuance of jury trials until September 14, 2020. The order also addresses operational issues in the District. See administrative order 2020-20 and court information for more details.
  • Western district: Visitor restrictions are in place. Judges encouraged to limit in-person appearances.  See court information for details.  Issued order updated court operations and access. See order for more information. The courthouse remains open, but courtrooms will only be able to accommodate a limited number of people to maintain social distancing.  See general order and policy for details.  The following persons are not permitted to enter the courthouse: 1) Persons without a face mask or face covering; 2) persons who have been asked to self-quarantine by any doctor, hospital, or health agency; 3) persons who have been diagnosed with, or have had contact with, anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 0r; 4) persons with fever, cough, or shortness of breath. 
  • Southern district: Court will reopen to the public on July 6th. See SDNY screening instructions, reopening announcement and court website for more information.

State court reactions

  • All New York state courts:
    • E-filing through NYSCEF, including the filing of new non-essential matters, is restored in all counties. This includes counties of the state that have not yet met the benchmarks required to participate in the Governor's reopening plan. See Judge Marks' memorandum for more information. 
    • Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.48 which continues the temporary suspension and modification of laws related to the disaster emergency until August 5th. There are exceptions. For example, the directive contained in Executive Order 202.28, as extended, that prohibited initiation of a proceeding or enforcement of either an eviction of any residential or commercial tenant, for nonpayment of rent or a foreclosure of any residential or commercial mortgage, for nonpayment of such mortgage, is continued only insofar as it applies to a commercial tenant or commercial mortgagor, as it has been superseded by legislation for a residential tenant, and residential mortgagor, in Chapters 112, 126, and 127 of the Laws of 2020Please see the executive order for more information.
    • View notice to the public for more information about the UCS program for the electronic delivery of documents.
  • New York court of appeals:
    • The New York State Court of Appeals will begin the transition to in-person courthouse operations. However, the courthouse will remain closed to the public, and filings will not be accepted in person at the Clerk's office. See notice to the bar and court information for more information.
  • Intermediate appellate courts:
    • First department: See court information for details.
      • Effective June 1, e-filing will be mandatory in all civil matters originating in the Supreme Court, Bronx and New York Counties. The First Department will have a new portal for the submisison of digital documents. See public notice for more information. 
      • Rescinded March 17, 2020 tolling order. Records and briefs beyond the June term are now due according to usual deadlines. All remaining term deadlines for the 2020 Term Calendar in in effect. Deadlines set for papers due on pending motions are also set in this order. See order for more information.
      • Hard copy filings are not permitted until further notice. For non-mandatory e-file appeals, forward papers to: AD1copy-civil@nycourts.gov and AD-1-clerks-office@nycourts.gov
    • Second department: See court information for details.
      • Lifted the suspension of filing deadlines for the perfection of civil matters. See notice for more information.
      • Courthouse remains closed to the public.  See notice for more information.
      • Resumed regular appeal decision release schedule. Appeal decisions will be released and posted to the Court’s website each Wednesday at 1:00 PM. See announcement for more information.
      • Click here for additional information on oral arguments conducted via Skype in the Second Department. 
    • Third department: See court information for details.
      • Instituted an order lifting the suspension of deadlines pertaining to the perfection of appeals. See order for more information. 
    • Fourth department: See court information for details.
      • Expanded operations as a virtual court.  See press release for more information. 

County Specific Updates

  • Westchester County: Returned to in-person court operations on July 9th. See court information for details.

North Carolina

Federal court reactions 

  • Fourth circuit: Other than authorized visitors, the Powell Courthouse is closed to the public. Paper copies may be filed in the Lobby; however, persons in contact with COVID-19 are prohibited from accessing the Courthouse for any reason, and others must follow social distancing guidelines. See notice for details.  In-person oral arguments continue to be suspended. See court information for details.
  • Eastern district:   Courthouses will remain open for business, subject to visitor restrictions in place.  All jury trials scheduled through May 1, 2020 are continued.  All other hearings, conferences, and/or proceedings are subject to the discretion of the individual judge.  Videoconferencing and teleconferencing encouraged for hearings.  See standing order for details.
  • Middle district:  All case deadlines are not extended and remain in effect, unless specifically addressed in Amended Standing Order 13 or by specific order of the assigned judge. All civil jury trials in the District scheduled to begin before June 8, 2020 are continued and postponed pending further order of the court or the assigned judge. Trials are expected to resume at the earliest time it is determined safe and appropriate to do so. Standing Order 16 establishes further protocols relating to who may enter the courthouse. The Order is available for review here: https://www.ncmd.uscourts.gov/standing-orders 
  • Western district: All courthouses remain open for business, subject to visitor limitations.  Judges will stagger their court hearings; magistrate judge hearings will be moved to larger courtrooms; non-evidentiary hearings should be conducted by telephone or SKYPE.  See court directive for details. For Judge Conrad:  oral arguments on summary judgment motions in civil cases are suspended; all summary judgment motions will be decided on the briefs until further notice.

State court reactions

  • Emergency Directive No.1 - All superior court and district court proceedings, including proceedings before the clerks of superior court, must be scheduled or rescheduled for a date no sooner than  June 1, 2020, unless certain conditions are met.
  • Emergency Directive No. 2- The clerks of superior court shall post a notice at the entrance to every court facility in their county directing that any person who has likely been exposed to COVID-19 should not enter the courthouse.
  • Emergency Directive No. 3- Judicial officials throughout the state are hereby authorized to conduct proceedings that include remote audio and video transmissions, notwithstanding any other provision of law.
  • Emergency Directive No. 4- Attorneys and other persons who do not have business in a courthouse should not enter a courthouse, and those who do have business in a courthouse should not prolong their visit once their business has concluded.
  • Emergency Directive No. 5- When it is required that any pleading, motion, petition, supporting affidavit, or other document of any kind to be filed in the General Court of Justice be verified, or that an oath be taken, it shall be sufficient if the subscriber affirms the truth of the matter to be verified by an affirmation or representation in substantially the form of the language provided in the Order.
  • Emergency Directive No. 6- Notwithstanding the manner of service described in Rule 5 of the Rules of Civil Procedure, service required by Rule 5 may be made electronically on a party or a party’s attorney as provided in the Order.
  • Emergency Directive No. 7- For all monies owed pursuant to a judgment or order entered by a court prior to April 6, 2020 in a criminal or infraction case with a payment due date on or after April 6, 2020 and before or on May 30, 2020, the date by which payment must be made is hereby extended 90 days.
  • See here for emergency directives; additional updates available here.

North Dakota

Federal court reactions 

  • Eighth circuit:  The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference through March 2021 using Microsoft Teams.  See notice for more information. Access to both the Eagleton Courthouse and the Burger Courthouse remains limited. Boht the St. Louis and the St. Paul Clerk's offices remain closed to the public. Requirement to file paper copies is active.
  • District of North Dakota:   Visitor restrictions imposed. Those admitted must abide by the facilities' public safety policies.  See Administrative Order re: COVID-19 Updated 6/21/21, and Press Release with regard to face coverings and social distancing, available under News and Announcements at Court website. 
  • North Dakota supreme court: On April 1, 2021, the Supreme Court posted that it decided to repeal or amend several emergency orders due to current COVID-19 conditions that indicate abatement of the pandemic.  See April 1, 2021 Post.  On April 6, 2021, the Chief Justice issues a statement on the continued response to the pandemic.  See April 6, 2021 Announcement.  See also https://www.ndcourts.gov/emergency-order-and-pandemic-response
  • Lower state courts:   While many courthouses reopened after the first wave, certain counties may be closed and/or are limiting access.  Please use the following General News link for more details and updates.  

Ohio

Federal court reactions

  • Sixth circuit:  As of April 7, 2020, the Potter Stewart Courthouse in Cincinnati is closed to the public. The Clerk’s office will continue to process all electronically filed documents but will not process incoming mail or accept deliveries.  In-person (and video) oral arguments to resume starting June 2021.   See notice and court information for details.
  • Southern district:  Civil hearings and trials postponed. Judges may conduct video/telephonic conferences in their discretion.   As of April 28, the Potter Steward courthouse has reopened with reduced staffing levels and other restrictions imposed. See General Order 20-14 and court information for details.
  • Northern district:  Courthouses temporarily closed to public. Judges will conduct civil pretrial proceedings by telephone or videoconference. See order 2020-05-1  and court information for details.

State court reactions

  • Statewide:  Court specific resources are here.  See Ohio Court COVID-19 Responses for additional county specific information. 
  • Ohio supreme court:  As of Monday, March 16, 2020, the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center and the Supreme Court of Ohio are operating with only essential staff on-site. The building is open, but only to those who have time-sensitive business with the Supreme Court of Ohio.  The court also imposed rules tolling or extending certain deadlines.  See administrative order for more information. Tolled time requirements until the period of emergency ends or July 30, 2020, whichever is sooner. See administrative action for more information. Instituted standards and practices essential to the resumption of jury trials in Ohio. See report and recommendation here. 
  • Lower state courts:  Ohio Chief Justice advised state courts will remain open and each court and judge is to devise its own response, but courts may suspend jury trials.  See notice and court information for details. Civil proceedings may be conducted via telephone at each judge's discretion.  Essential operations of the courts will continue with limited staff.  See administrative order for details.

Oklahoma

Federal court reactions 

  • Tenth circuit:  As of June 15, 2020, the Byron White U.S. Courthouse reopened to the public who have pending business with the court. Those entering the courthouse must follow the protocols posted on the Court's website. As of July 1, 2020, requirement for parties to submit paper copies is reinstated.
  • Eastern district of Oklahoma: All jury trials scheduled through April 17, 2020 continued pending further order of the court.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See announcements for details.
  • Western district of Oklahoma: All jury trials on the April & June 2020 docket continued, to be reset by the presiding judge.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See announcements for details.
  • Northern district of Oklahoma: Deadlines relating to forfeiture proceedings extended. See General Order 20-12: https://www.oknd.uscourts.gov/general-orders

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:  All civil, criminal, and juvenile jury trials shall be continued to the next available jury docket after July 31, 2020. Subject only to constitutional limitations, all deadlines and procedures whether prescribed by statute, rule, or order in any civil, juvenile, or criminal case, shall be suspended through May 15, 2020; this extension also applies to appellate rules and procedures for the Supreme Court, the Court of Criminal Appeals, and the Court of Civil Appeals. In any civil case, the statute of limitations shall be extended through May 15, 2020.  This is a tolling period extension; time periods are not renewed.  Begninng May 16 all time perioeds will be enforced.  All courthouses in all counties shall be closed to the public with exceptions for emergencies as permitted by local order. See Scad No. 2020-24, Scad No. 2020-29 and Scad No. 2020.36 for details. 
  • Lower state courts:  Widespread suspensions of in-person proceedings and court closures based on supreme court directive.  See notices and search by county for county-specific information.

 

Oregon

Federal court reactions

  • Ninth circuit:  As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • District of Oregon:  All civil and criminal jury selections and jury trials scheduled to begin before July 15 2020 are continued pending further order of the court.  Unless otherwise ordered by the presiding judge, all other civil and criminal matters scheduled for in-court appearance before July 15, 2020, including any associated deadlines, are continued unless all parties and the presiding judge agree to resolve the matters without oral argument, or via telephone or video conferencing where practical.  All persons sekeing entry to the courthouse must wear a face covering or mask unless a medical condition prevents them from doing so and they can show proof of the condition in the form of a physician's order or other documentation.  See general order 20-12 for details. 

State court reactions

  • Oregon supreme court:  The court will only hold oral arguments before September 2020 in "exceptional" cases.  If parties to a case scheduled for argument do not agree to submission on the briefs, the court will reset oral argument no earlier than September 2020.  See chief justice order for details.
  • Oregon court of appeals:  Beginning in May 2020 and until further order (at least through August 2020), oral arguments will be conducted by video conference.  Motions requesting a 60-day extension of time due to circumstances related to COVID-19 will be liberally granted.  See amended chief justice order for details. 
  • Lower state courts:  In courts where the governor has authorized phase one reopening status, courts may conduct bench trials and other court proceedings, except jury trial trials and FED first appearances and trials, after June 1.  In courts where the governor has authorized gatherings of at least 50 persons in one location, courts may conduct jury trials after July 1.  Jury trials must be held in the courthouse or alternative physical location.  All other proceedings may be held remotely, with the presiding judge determining the mode of trial.  See chief justice order for details.  Court statewide and local court information available here.

Pennsylvania

Federal court reactions

  • Third circuit:  Court remains open and operational.  The clerk's office is conducting remote operations.  The dropbox will not be available, but parties may continue to file electronically and email documents to the clerk's office.  Parties may email documents that cannot otherwise be electronically filed and may continue to submit filings via mail. Oral arguments are being streamed.  See notice, order and court information for details.
  • Eastern district:   All jury trials scheduled through April 13, 2020 are continued.  See Eastern District website for details.
  • Middle district: All hearings and proceedings through August 31 involving the physical presence of counsel or any party or individual before the Court are continued unless certain exceptions are met, including if they can be held by phone/ video.  Scranton divisional office has reopened.  The Court staff and visitors are required to wear masks.  See general order 20-01,  supplemental order 20-01,  general order 20-4,  general order 20-8, Order Re Court Proceedings, Second Extension Order and website for details.  
  • Western district: All jury trials scheduled to begin before September 8, 2020 continued until further order.  See Western District website for details.

State court reactions

  • All state court orders regarding COVID-19 can be found at the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania website.
  • Statewide: All state courts are closed to the public through April 30, 2020.  President Judges are authorized to declare judicial emergencies in their districts through May 31, 2020. All time calculations for purposes of time computation relevant to court cases or other judicial business, as  well as time deadlines, are suspended through April 30, 2020.  Electronic means of communications are authorized. Any in-person pretrial conference, case management conference, status conference, diversionary program, discovery motions practice, motions practice or other hearing, whether civil or criminal, are postponed until April 30, 2020. Non-essential matters are supposed to move forward through electronic means.  All due dates for filings in the Supreme Court from March 16, 2020, and through April 30, 2020, are extended to May 1, 2020.  Suspension of time calculations and deadlines provided for in the courts previous orders will end effective May 11, 2020.  Jury trials remain suspended.  All county courts are directed to restore a wider range of operations, giving priority to critical matters and remaining focused on protecting health and safety of court users.  Cessation of statewide judicial emergency after June 1, 2020.  See March 18 Supreme Court Administrative Order and April 1 Order , and April 13, 2020 Order, and April 28 Order  and Cessation Order for details. See also Court's website for updates.
  • Supreme court: All oral argument sessions scheduled in Pittsburgh from April 21 through April 23 are cancelled.  Cases scheduled for argument during that session will be decided on briefs previously submitted.  All due dates for filings in the Supreme Court from March 16, 2020, and through April 30, 2020, are extended to May 1, 2020.  See website for details.  No public access to the Eastern District, Middle District, and Western District Supreme Court Filing Offices.  Certain filings deadlines in the Western District are extended to April 17, 2020.  Suspension of time calculations and deadlines provided for in the courts previous orders will end effective May 11, 2020.  Jury trials remain suspended.  All county courts are directed to restore a wider range of operations, giving priority to critical matters and remaining focused on protecting health and safety of court users.  Cessation of statewide judicial emergency after June 1, 2020.  See March 17 Supreme Court Order on Judicial Operations and March 30 Supreme Court Order and April 13, 2020 Order and April 28 Order and Cessation Order for detail
  • Lower state courts: Superior court deadlines between March 17, 2020, 2020 and April 17, 2020 extended 30 days. Suspension of time calculations and deadlines provided for in the courts previous orders will end effective May 11, 2020.  Jury trials remain suspended.   All county courts are directed to restore a wider range of operations, giving priority to critical matters and remaining focused on protecting health and safety of court users.  Cessation of statewide judicial emergency after June 1, 2020.  See March 17 Supreme Court Order on Judicial Operations and March 30 Supreme Court Order and April 13, 2020 Order and April 28 Order and Cessation Order for detail

Rhode Island

Federal court reactions 

  • First circuit:  The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit will hold oral arguments by video conference during the court’s October and November 2021 sessions. Given the continued public health restrictions and limits on public access to the courthouse, the court will also provide live audio access to such arguments. Public access to live audio of the court’s October and November 2021 sessions will be available at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiq_Kg0zEPrjMFK_s-KP5_g/. After the end of each day's arguments, audio recordings of each argument will be available on the court's website. Counsel scheduled for argument during the October and November 2021 court sessions will be receiving additional information and instructions from the Clerk’s Office.
  • District of Rhode Island:  The courthouse located at One Exchange Terrace and the portion of the John O. Pastore building occupied by the court are opento the public subject to certain requirements.  See the court's website (https://www.rid.uscourts.gov/general-orders) for further details.

State court reactions 

  • Rhode Island Supreme Court:   Clerk's office will no longer accept in-person filings until procedures are adopted to allow for safe in-person visits to the clerk's office. See  Executive Order 20-13 for details.  Until further notice, in-person appearances are limited.  See Executive Order 2020-06 for details.    
  • Superior court:  Civil jury trials must be conducted pursuant to the court's jury trial protocols under COVID-19 guidelines. Bench trials may be conducted remotely with the consent of the parties. Hearings will continue to be conducted remotely as much as possible, but critical matters may be heard in-person.  Visitor restrictions imposed. See  Supreme Court Executive Order 2020-12 and Jury Trial Protocols for details.  

South Carolina

Federal court reactions

  • Fourth circuit:  Other than authorized visitors, the Powell Courthouse is closed to the public. Paper copies may be filed in the Lobby; however, persons in contact with COVID-19 are prohibited from accessing the Courthouse for any reason, and others must follow social distancing guidelines. See notice for details.  In-person oral arguments continue to be suspended.  See court information for details.
  • South Carolina district court:  All jury trials are suspended until further order, unless individual presiding judges determine jury trials may go forward.  Any non-jury civil matters set for shall not be continued unless done so by individual judges.  Existing civil deadlines are not tolled.  Applicable statutes of limitation are not tolled. See Standing Order 3:20-mc-00416.

State court reactions

  • Statewide. 

    • Beginning September 21, 2020, court operations will resume normal scheduling and docket management, including in-person hearings in Circuit Court and Family Court, as well as General Sessions and Common Pleas jury trials.  Judges have discretion to determine whether it is appropriate to conduct a hearing using remote communication technology.  Any matter heard in person must be conducted in a reasonably safe manner in accordance with established COVID-19 protocol.  See order for more details.

    • Foreclosure and eviction actions shall resume May 15.  See Supreme Court Order RE: Statewide Evictions and Foreclosures for details.  Any party pursuing an eviction or foreclosure in the trial court must submit a signed, original Certification of Compliance with the CARES Act.  For evictions and foreclosures filed on or after May 6, 2020, the Certification of Compliance must be submitted along with the initial filing. For evictions and foreclosures filed before May 6, 2020, the Certification of Compliance must be filed with the court prior to proceeding with the eviction or foreclosure. If a party required to file a Certification of Compliance neglects to do so the eviction or foreclosure shall terminate without further action taken.  See order.  The form for evictions (SCCA256B), and the form for foreclosures (SCCA256A) are approved for use in the trial courts.

  • South Carolina court of appeals:  The Appellate Courts are conducting oral arguments and any necessary hearings by Cisco WebEx.  For oral arguments that would normally be open to the public, the Supreme Court will either live stream the arguments and/or post a recording to the video portal on the South Carolina Judicial Branch Website.  As the risk to participants diminishes, the Appellate Courts will return to conducting arguments and hearings in a courtroom, with appropriate limitations on the number of persons permitted to be present.  See order for details.

South Dakota

Federal court reactions

  • Eighth circuit:  The court will conduct oral arguments by videoconference on June 16-19, 2020.  See notice for more information.  Requirement to file paper copies is suspended. Visitor restrictions imposed.  See notice for details. See court information for details.
  • District of South Dakota:  All jury trials scheduled to commence on or before July 6, 2020 will be continued pending further order of the court.  Non-jury proceedings, such as bench trials and hearings, shall proceed as scheduled unless continued, but the parties are encouraged to consider telephone or video conferencing.  All grand jury proceedings between March 17, 2020, and April 24,2020, are continued pending further order of the Court.  All deadlines established in civil cases will remain in place, although the Court will be receptive to motions from the parties to enlarge deadlines.  Parties are encouraged to consider conducting discovery through means that avoid unnecessary travel or personal contact. Visitor restrictions imposed.  All jury trials scheduled to commence before July 6, 2020, are continued.  See announcements for details.  

State court reactions

  • South Dakota supreme court:  No changes to court operations.  Clay County Court offices will close effective 08:00am on 03/30/2020 and are expected to reopen at 08:00am on 04/01/2020.  The Clay Count Court office are closed until Wednesday, 04/01/2020.
  • Lower trial courts: 
    • First Judicial District:  Parties allowed to appear by telephone whenever SDCL 15-5A permits it; jury trials scheduled in March and April, 2020 shall be continued whenever possible.  See COVID-19 Response for details.
    • Second Judicial District:  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See COVID-19 Response for details.
    • Third Judicial District: Parties allowed to appear by telephone whenever SDCL 15-5A permits it; jury trials scheduled in March and April, 2020 shall be continued whenever possible; all jury trials to be continued a minimum of 30 days.  See COVID-19 Response for details.
    • Fourth Judicial District: Parties allowed to appear by telephone whenever SDCL 15-5A permits it; jury trials scheduled in March and April, 2020 shall be continued whenever possible; all jury trials to be continued a minimum of 30 days.  See COVID-19 Response for details.
    • Fifth Judicial District: Civil jury trials scheduled before May 15, 2020 continued and will be rescheduled.  See COVID-19 Response for details. 
    • Sixth Judicial District:  Visitor restrictions imposed.  Courts will conduct hearings via ITV or phone wherever possible, or continue jury trials as necessary, to minimize the number of persons required to gather in the courtroom. See COVID-19 Response for  details. 
    • Seventh Judicial District:  Civil jury trials continued a minimum of 30 days.  See COVID-19 Response for details. 

Tennessee

Federal court reactions

  • Sixth circuit:  As of April 7, 2020, the Potter Stewart Courthouse in Cincinnati is closed to the public. The Clerk’s office will continue to process all electronically filed documents but will not process incoming mail or accept deliveries.  In-person (and video) oral arguments to resume starting June 2021.   See notice and court information for details.
  • Eastern district: Jury trials resumed May 14, 2021 (as directed by the Court) — Most visitor restrictions, including mask mandate, rescinded March 15, 2022. See Standing Order SO-22-04. See Court’s website for additional standing orders and further details. The Court has published a judge-by-judge guide for trial proceedings. NOTE: TNED has not issued any COVID-related updates since March 15, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22). 
  • Middle district: Jury trials resumed March 1, 2021 — On June 12, 2020, the Court adopted a “Plan for Phased Approach to Resume Court Operations During COVID-19 Pandemic,” which included a limited resumption of civil jury trials (trials are proceeding as scheduled). Individual judges may continue to hold hearings, conferences, and bench trials in the exercise of their discretion. Such court proceedings may be conducted by telephone or video conference. Deadlines previously established remain in full force and effect. See Administrative Order No. 209 (Fiftenth Amended) (12/30/21). See Court’s website for additional administrative orders and other details. Anyone entering the courthouse must wear a mask. NOTE: TNMD has not issued any COVID-related updates since February 28, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).
  • Western district: Jury trials resumed February 18, 2022 — In-person proceedings resumed, with certain restrictions, on February 24, 2021. See Administrative Order 2022-2 (1/24/22) and Western District website for details. Anyone entering a courthouse must wear a mask. NOTE: TNWD has not issued any COVID-related updates since January 24, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).

State Court Reactions

  • Statewide: Jury trials resumed March 31, 2021 – See Supreme Court Order ADM2020-00428 (2/12/21). For further updates, see court’s website. The Tennessee Supreme Court lifted the mask mandate on May 14, 2021, but on August 26, 2021 noted that “judicial districts and individual judges retain the authority to require facial coverings. The Court strongly encourages each judicial district to consider implementing facial covering requirements as recommended by current CDC guidelines." NOTE: Tennessee has not issued any COVID-related updates since February 16, 2022 (last checked 12/20/22).

 

Texas

Federal court reactions 

  • Fifth circuit:  John Minor Wisdom Building is closed to the public until further notice.  The Court has canceled in person oral arguments scheduled for August 3 - August 6, 2020. The Court has approved the use of video and/or audio conferences. The Clerk's Office will advise counsel how their case will be handled. The public will be able to access a "live" audio feed of the oral argument proceedings. Requirement to file paper copies of filed pleadings and documents suspended until further notice.  See General Order 1,  General Order 2, General Order 3, General Order 4, General Order 5, calendar, and notices for further details.
  • Northern district of Texas:  All civil bench and jury trials scheduled to begin from May 1-May 31, 2020 are continued, to be rest by each presiding judge.  All other deadlines remain in place.   Individual judges may continue to hold bench trials, in-person hearings, scheduling conferences and other court proceedings but the use of telephone or video conferencing is encouraged. Visitor restrictions imposed.  See special order no. 13-5, special order no. 13-11, and Notices for details.
  • Eastern district of Texas:  All civil matters scheduled for an in-person appearances continued until further notification.  See divisional standing order for details.   All jury trials in all divisions through May 1, 2020 continued to a date to be re-set by the presiding judges.  All other deadlines remain in place.  Individual judges may continue to hold bench trials, scheduling conferences and other court proceedings on a case-by-case basis, as they deem appropriate.  Certain general orders shall terminate on May 31, 2020.  See Order Re: Modification of General Orders for details.  See Notices  for updates. 
  • Western district of Texas:   Civil bench and jury trials scheduled to begin through June 30, 2020 remain continued to a date to be reset by the presiding judge.  All other deadlines remain in place.  Individual judges may continue to hold in-person hearings and conferences but the parties are encouraged to appear by telephone or video.  See amended order for details.  The court will consider rescheduling Markman hearings and adjustments to post-Markman patent cases.  See Notices  for updates. 
  • Southern district of Texas – division by division;  See Notices  for updates. 
    • Brownsville division: All jury trials scheduled to begin  through May 1, 2020 are continued to a date to be re-set by each judge.  All other deadlines remain in place.   Individual judges may continue to hold bench trials, in-person hearings, scheduling conferences and other court proceedings but the use of telephone or video conferencing is encouraged. Visitor restrictions imposed.  See order no. 2020-001 and order 2022-002 for details.
    • Corpus Christi/Victoria division:  All jury trials scheduled to begin through May 1, 2020 are continued to a date to be re-set by each judge.  All other deadlines remain in place.   Individual judges may continue to hold bench trials, in-person hearings, scheduling conferences and other court proceedings but the use of telephone or video conferencing is encouraged. Visitor restrictions imposed.  See order no. 2020-02 and order no. 2020-04 for details
    • Houston/Galveston division: All jury trials scheduled to begin through May 1, 2020 are continued to a date to be re-set by each judge.  All other deadlines remain in place pending order of the presiding judge.   Individual judges may continue to hold bench trials, in-person hearings, scheduling conferences and other court proceedings but the use of telephone or video conferencing is encouraged. Visitor restrictions imposed.  See order no. 2020-06, order no. 2020-07, and order no. H-2020-11 for details.
    • Laredo division: All civil trials scheduled to begin in April, after the regularly scheduled pretrial conferences are continued, to a date reset by each presiding judge.  The continuances do not affect any deadlines other than the jury trial dates.  Individual judges may continue to hold bench trials, in-person hearings, scheduling conferences and other court proceedings but the use of telephone or video conferencing in these proceedings is encouraged when feasible.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See special order L-2020-3 and special order L-2020-4 or details. 
    • McAllen division: Visitor restrictions imposed.  See general order 2020-01 for details.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:
    • All service and statute of limitations deadlines for civil cases are tolled from March 13, 2020, until June 1, 2020, unless extended by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This does not include deadlines for perfecting appeal or for other appellate proceedings, requests for relief from which should be directed to the court involved and should be generously granted.  
    • In any action for eviction to recover possession of residential property under Chapter 24 of the Texas Property Code and Rule 510 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure: a. No trial, hearing, or other proceeding may be conducted, and all deadlines are tolled, until after April 30, 2020; b. A writ of possession may issue, but the posting of the written warning required by § 24.0061(d)(1) of the Property Code and the execution of the writ of possession may not occur until after May 7, 2020, and the deadlines in Rules 510.8(d)(1)-(d)(2) are tolled while this Order remains in effect; and c. New filings may be accepted, but the time period in Rule 510.4(a)(10) is suspended, and issuance and service of citation may not occur until after April 19, 2020.   Effective June 1, courts may begin holding non-essential in-person hearings consistent with OCA’s Guidance to Courts Regarding All Court Proceedings.  See Notices for further details. 
  • Texas supreme court:  Supreme Court Building indefinitely closed to the public. See coronavirus update for details.  
  • Texas courts of appeals:
    • Second Court of Appeals – Fort Worth: See Court Updates posted on the court website for details.
    • Third Court of Appeals – Austin: Oral arguments and any other in-person proceedings through May 8, 2020 suspended pending further order of the court. See order regarding the COVID-19 state of disaster for details.
    • Fourth Court of Appeals – San Antonio: Court operating on a virtual basis while monitoring the COVID-19 situation.  Other than working remotely, the court remains fully operational.  See announcements posted on the court website for details.
    • Seventh Court of Appeals – Amarillo:  Court maintaining normal hours of operation but litigants with pending deadlines scheduled to present argument or whose schedule has been substantively affected by COVID-19 may bring the matter to the court’s attention by appropriate motion.  See announcement posted on the court website for details.
  • Lower state courts: Widespread court closures, visitor restrictions and cancellations.  See website for county-specific information.  All courts may modify or suspend all deadlines and procedures and allow or requires parties involved in any hearing, deposition or proceeding to participate remotely.  See Misc. Docket No. 20-007 for details.      

Utah

Federal court reactions 

  • Tenth circuit: As of June 15, 2020, the Byron White U.S. Courthouse reopened to the public who have pending business with the court. Those entering the courthouse must follow the protocols posted on the Court's website. As of July 1, 2020, requirement for parties to submit paper copies is reinstated.
  • District of Utah:  All civil and criminal jury trials are continued through August 1, 2020, pending further order of the Court. The Court may issue further orders concerning future continuances, as necessary and appropriate. Questions concerning prospective scheduling of trial dates should be directed to the assigned judge. See general order 20-017 for details.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See general order 20-008 and general order 20-009 for details. 

 State court reactions 

  • Utah supreme court:  Oral arguments to be conducted by remote transmission.  Cases not set for oral argument may be decided on the briefs.  Briefs shall be forwarded to the court by a .pdf attachment to an email, with paper copies to be filed later upon the clerk's direction.  See administrative order dated March 21, 2020 for details.  Further information to be posted here.
  • Utah court of appeals:  Oral arguments to be conducted by remote transmission.  Case not set for oral argument may be decided on the briefs.  Briefs shall be forwarded to the court by a .pdf attachment to an email, with paper copies to be filed later upon the clerk's direction.  See administrative order dated March 21, 2020 for details. Further information to be posted here. 
  • Lower state courts:  District courts shall continue to perform all "mission-critical" functions and may holde other hearings provided the hearing is conducted by remote transmission and court staff is available.   Absent exigent circumstances, all hearings shall be conducted on the papers, or through remote transmission, such as by telephone or video conferencing.  All civil jury trials suspended until after June 1, 2020.  See administrative order dated March 21, 2020 for details.  Further information to be posted here.
    • Kane County:  Kane County Building, where court facilities are located, is now open to the public.  More details here.
    • Wayne County:  Wayne County Building, where court facilities are located, is closed to the public.  Appointments may be made to access court files.  More details here.
    • 6th District court locations in Junction, Panguitch, and Loa are physically open to the public with social distancing.  More details here.

Vermont

Federal court reactions

  • Second circuit:  Current conditions related to the Covid pandemic require that counsel appear with no more than one colleague to assist with the argument. Pro se litigants also may be accompanied by no more than one person in the courtroom. Individuals who arrive at the courthouse for argument must meet the health screening requirements and entrance protocols specified at the entrance to the building. All persons must wear a mask at all times in the building, including in the courtroom and during oral argument. See court information for more details.
  • District of Vermont:  All civil matters scheduled for in-court appearance are postponed until further notice.  Judges may make exceptions for emergency hearings.  Judges may case-by-case exceptions to postponements in non-jury matters.  Civil motions that can be resolved via telephone conference, or without oral argument, are unaffected.  See general order 86 for details.   Individual judges are authorized to conduct civil motion hearings by telephone, with or without the presence of a court reporter. Counsel and the parties do not need to travel to the courthouse for a telephone hearing. The court will send out the call-in details in advance of any telephone hearing. Decisions about whether to hold a telephonic hearing and whether to record it, whether to provide a court reporter by telephone, or whether to memorialize it in a written order are left to the individual discretion of the assigned judge.  See general order 88 for details.

 State court reactions

  • Vermont supreme court:  May hold oral arguments by telephone or consider the case without oral argument in its discretion.  See court information.
  • Lower state courts:  Civil jury trials suspended at least until January 1, 2021.  Effective June 1, 2020, nonemergency hearings in all dockets may begin. Courthouse visitor restrictions are imposed.  Though suspended, nonemergency hearings may proceed remotely at the court's discretion and the court has suspended some court rules regarding service of pleadings.  See June 22 amendment to AO49, May 13 amendment to AO49, April 30 amendment to AO49 and March 18 amendment to AO 49 for details.

Virginia

Federal court reactions 

  • Fourth circuit:  Other than authorized visitors, the Powell Courthouse is closed to the public. Paper copies may be filed in the Lobby; however, persons in contact with COVID-19 are prohibited from accessing the Courthouse for any reason, and others must follow social distancing guidelines. See notice for details. In-person oral arguments continue to be suspended.  See court information for details.
  • Eastern district: All in-person proceedings scheduled to occur through June 10, 2020, with the exception of critical or emergency proceedings, are postponed and continued.  All filing deadlines set to fall on or before April 14, 2020 are extended by 14 days, unless the presiding judge sets a different date.  The court will remain open for critical or emergency civil or criminal matters. The order does not toll any applicable statutes of limitations.   See  court information for details. Beginning May 26, 2020, the U.S. Courthouse in Newport News will reopen to the public and to all employees, subject to restrictions on proceedings and visitors of General order no. 2020-12.  All employees, contractors and visitors shall abide with face covering and social distancing guidelines. See order for details.  Effective June 11, 2020, in-person proceedings will no longer be strictly limited to "critical or emergency proceedings."  No civil jury trials shall be conducted until further notice.  See General order no. 2020-16.  

     

  • Western district:  All in-person proceedings through June 10, 2020 are continued.  Judges may conduct proceedings by telephone or video conference.  See second amended standing order 2020-5,order no. 2020-5, and court information for details.

State court reactions 

  • Statewide:  All district and circuit court statutes of limitation and all other case-related deadlines, excluding discovery deadlines, shall continue to be tolled through June 7, 2020. See order for details.  Effective May 18, 2020, all courts may hear in-person non-emergency matters if they determine it is safe to do so, and provided they comply with the guidance for transitioning from emergency to routine operations. See order for details. 
  • Supreme court: Supreme Court is closed to public until further notice.
  • Appellate court: Dockets through June 30, 2020, will be conducted via teleconference.  
  • Lower state courts: Varies by jurisdiction. 

Washington

Federal court reactions 

  • Ninth circuit:  As of June 29, 2020, arguments continue to be conducted as scheduled via video or telephone. Courthouses closed to the public during non-court weeks. Courts remain closed to the public. Attorneys and parties are encouraged to use CM/ECF, and the Clerk's Office is accepting queries via email.
  • Eastern district of Washington:  All Hearings are being conducted by virtual appearances.  Richland and Yakima courthouses closed to the public through February 28, 2021, with exception of essential in-person hearings and functions at discretion of presiding judge.  See general order 2021-1. All persons entering courthouse must wear a mask. See court information for details.
  • Western district of Washington: Civil hearings, unless otherwise scheduled by presiding judge, will be telephonic.  In-person jury trials postponed until March 31, 2021. See court information for details.

State court reactions 

  • Washington supreme court: Temple of Justice closed to the public until further notice, but all court business will continue.  See announcement for details.  See court information for details.
  • Lower state courts:  Widespread court closures but clearinghouse for court modifications and local court orders created. See court closures and emergency modifications to operations and search by county for county-specific information.

West Virginia

Federal court reactions 

  • Fourth circuit: Other than authorized visitors, the Powell Courthouse is closed to the public. Paper copies may be filed in the Lobby; however, persons in contact with COVID-19 are prohibited from accessing the Courthouse for any reason, and others must follow social distancing guidelines. See notice for details. In-person oral arguments continue to be suspended.  See court information for details.
  •  Southern district: Courthouse open to general public as of July 1. See court information and general order #7for details. 
  • Northern district: Certain people restricted from entering; otherwise open for business as usual. See court information for details.

State court reactions 

Wisconsin

Federal court reactions

  • Seventh circuit: All cases scheduled for oral argument through April 30, 2021, will be argued either telephonically or by Zoom Video Communications, with audio livestreamed to YouTube.   See Order Regarding COVID-19 for details. As of February 18, 2021, persons entering the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse and the Stanley J. Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse must wear a face covering. Court updates and information here.
  • Eastern district:  Courthouse closed to the public through May 1, 2020 with limited exceptions.  All jury trials scheduled to begin before May 1, 2020 continued.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  See general order 20-2, general order 20-3, general order 20-04, general order 20-6 ,general order 20-12 and for details. Further updates will be posted here.  
  • Western district: Jury trials suspended through June 30, 2020.  Pretrial deadlines remain in place.  The court has also rescheduled all in-person hearings until after May 18, 2020, subject to case-by-case exceptions justified by extraordinary circumstances. Certain criminal hearings will be conducted by video teleconference or telephone. Further updates will be posted  here.

 State court reactions

  • Wisconsin supreme court:  All in-person proceedings suspended through April 30, 2020.  Oral arguments scheduled for April 20 have been rescheduled.  Court reporters may administer oaths at depositions via remote audio-visual equipment.  Most appellate filing deadlines extended by 21 days.   However, the tolling does not apply to the deadlines in the circuit courts and certain petitions filed with the Supreme Court.  Non-emergency motions to the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court are discouraged. Notices of appearance, motions, and responses to motions may be filed electronically. For those unable to file electronically, the court implemented a “Temporary Mailbox Rule,” meaning document that has been correctly addressed to the appropriate clerk of court and deposited in the U.S. mail or tendered to a commercial carrier, with proper postage and with a Statement of Mailing, will be deemed to have been filed as of the date of the Statement of Mailing. Wisconsin Supreme Court April oral arguments to be livestreamed via Zoom.  A list of Wisconsin live stream courts can be found  by clicking here.   The Wisconsin Courts COVID-19 Task Force has issued its final report, including a framework to guide counties and circuit courts as they work together to reopen facilities, return to in-person proceedings, and begin to normalize operations. See order,  order,  Order Re Remote Oaths, and 04.03.20 Order, Order Re Electronic Service,  Order Re Mailbox Rule for details.  Further updates to be posted here.
  • Wisconsin court of appeals:  All in-person proceedings suspended through April 30. 2020.  See order for details.  Court reporters may administer oaths at depositions via remote audio-visual equipment.  Most appellate filing deadlines extended by 21 days. Non-emergency motions to the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court are discouraged.  Notices of appearance, motions, and responses to motions may be filed electronically.  For those unable to file electronically, the court implemented a “Temporary Mailbox Rule,” meaning document that has been correctly addressed to the appropriate clerk of court and deposited in the U.S. mail or tendered to a commercial carrier, with proper postage and with a Statement of Mailing, will be deemed to have been filed as of the date of the Statement of Mailing. A list of Wisconsin live stream courts can be found  by clicking here.  The Wisconsin Courts COVID-19 Task Force has issued its final report, including a framework to guide counties and circuit courts as they work together to reopen facilities, return to in-person proceedings, and begin to normalize operations.  See Order Re Remote Oaths and 04.03.20 Order , Order Re Electronic Service, and Order Re Mailbox Rule for details.  Further updates to be posted here.
  • Lower state courts:  Pursuant to supreme court order, all civil jury trials scheduled to begin through May 22, 2020 are continued and will be rescheduled by the presiding judge.  See order for details. Court reporters may administer oaths at depositions via remote audio-visual equipment.  Notices of appearance, motions, and responses to motions may be filed electronically See Order Re Remote Oaths for details. For those unable to file electronically, the court implemented a “Temporary Mailbox Rule,” meaning document that has been correctly addressed to the appropriate clerk of court and deposited in the U.S. mail or tendered to a commercial carrier, with proper postage and with a Statement of Mailing, will be deemed to have been filed as of the date of the Statement of Mailing. A list of Wisconsin live stream courts can be found  by clicking here.   The Wisconsin Courts COVID-19 Task Force has issued its final report, including a framework to guide counties and circuit courts as they work together to reopen facilities, return to in-person proceedings, and begin to normalize operations.  See also 04.03.20 Order and Order Re Electronic Service, and Order Re Mailbox Rule. County-by-county information available here (click "COVID-19" tab).  

o    Dane county: From March 17, 2020 to April 17, 2020, all matters requiring in-person appearances, including jury trials, are suspended.  Any hearing that can be done by phone will proceed as scheduled. See order regarding emergency temporary measures  for details.

o    Milwaukee county: All matters requiring in-person appearances, including jury trials, are suspended until after April 30, 2020 or until further order of the court.  Non-evidentiary hearings that can be done by phone will proceed as scheduled but may be rescheduled by the presiding judge.  See order regarding emergency temporary measures for details.Top of FormBottom of Form

Wyoming

Federal court reactions

  • Tenth circuit court of appeals: As of June 15, 2020, the Byron White U.S. Courthouse reopened to the public who have pending business with the court. Those entering the courthouse must follow the protocols posted on the Court's website. As of July 1, 2020, requirement for parties to submit paper copies is reinstated.
  • District of Wyoming: All in-person hearings scheduled in civil cases between March 20, 2020 and May 31, 2020 to be held by telephone, video conference or other means that do not require a personal appearances.  All civil trial scheduled prior to June 1, 2020 vacated, including the final pretrial conference and associated deadlines.  Courthouse only open to the public between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. until April 6, 2020.  See memo to the bar, general order 20-02 and court information for details. 

 State court reactions 

  • Wyoming supreme court: Implemented court reopening guidelines.  Emergency procedures extended until October 5. See order and Wyoming Judicial Branch COVID-19 updates for details and further updates.  
  • Lower state courts: Judges are encouraged to use video or telephone conferencing to the extent possible. All civil trials should be rescheduled unless the judge finds that the trial can be held through video or telephonic means.  See amended order, and additional county-specific information for further details. 

Washington, D.C.

Federal court reactions 

 State court reactions 

  • District of Columbia court of appeals: Oral arguments will be held by remote means .  Filing due dates are no loner extended, but extension motions will be liberally granted.  See DCCA Order Addressing Operations (1/25/21)  for details on court operations through March 31, 2021.  A new order will issue after that.  Further updates will be posted here.
  • District of Columbia superior court: All civil hearings are held remotely.  No civil jury trials.  Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, all deadlines and time limits in statutes (including statute of limitations), court rules, and standing and other orders issued by the Court that would otherwise expire during the period of emergency are suspended, tolled and extended during the period of emergency, with the following exceptions: (1) deadlines applicable to parties represented by counsel in pending cases; (2) discovery-related deadlines applicable to all parties, including parties not represented by counsel; (3) effective January 29, 2021, deadlines for service of process applicable to all parties, including parties not represented by counsel; (4) deadlines for responsive pleadings applicable to all parties, including parties not represented by counsel; (5) motions-related deadlines applicable to all parties, including parties not represented by counsel; and (6) deadlines in orders issued after March 18, 2020.  See Chief Judge's 1/13/21 Order re: Operations through March 31, 2021.  Landlord/tenant information here.    Further updates will be posted here.  Notice of impact on clerk operations is here.

Puerto Rico

Federal court reactions

  • First circuit:  The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit will hold oral arguments by video conference during the court’s October and November 2021 sessions. Given the continued public health restrictions and limits on public access to the courthouse, the court will also provide live audio access to such arguments. Public access to live audio of the court’s October and November 2021 sessions will be available at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiq_Kg0zEPrjMFK_s-KP5_g/. After the end of each day's arguments, audio recordings of each argument will be available on the court's website. Counsel scheduled for argument during the October and November 2021 court sessions will be receiving additional information and instructions from the Clerk’s Office.
  • District of Puerto Rico:   The court will continuing holding certain hearings, conferences, and proceedings by video telephone conference. See standing order and court information for details. 

     

State court reactions

  • The court is allowing civil case hearings to be heard via videoconferencing.  See notice for details.  Court deadlines from March 16 to June 7, 2020 are extended to June 8, 2020. See court information for details.   All court visits scheduled from March 31 to May 25, 2020 are suspended.  See court information for details.

Guam

Federal court reactions 

  • Ninth circuit: Courthouses closed to the public. Oral arguments continue to be conducted by remote means.  Arguments are live streamed.  Court will continue to extend non-jurisdictional filing deadlines as needed, but parties should file a motion and show cause pursuant to Circuit Rule 31-2.2.  No more automatic extensions solely based on notice.  See notice (6/29/20) for details.
  • District of Guam: Court openings are depending on governor orders re conditions of readiness (PCOR1-PCOR4).  Guam is under PCOR2 effective January 18, 2021.  All civil jury trials are continued pending further court order.  All other in-court civil proceedings are permitted at the discretion of the presiding judge; however, judges remain authorized and are strongly encouraged to conduct all civil case proceedings by video or telephonic conference where practicable.  Visitor restrictions imposed.  Facemasks required in all common areas.  See General Order 21-0001,  General Order 20-0032, General Order 20-0039, and Genderal Order 20-0046 for details.  Updates are posted here.  FAQs here.

Local court reactions 

  • Judicary of Guam facilities shall be open to the general public for all court business subject to certain defined limitations (see AO below).  Facemasks required; temperature checks will be performed.  Remote proceedings still preferred.  Scheduling of jury trials is subject to approval of presiding superior court judge and shall adhere to social distancing requirements.  See 13th Updated Administrative Order 21-001 for details.  Further updates available here.