CALIFORNIA—As the stay-at-home order, which was issued on March 19 is starting ease restrictions, some California courts have decided to conditionally reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The continuous operation of our courts is essential for our constitutional form of government, and for providing due process and protecting the public. However, courts are clearly places of high risk during this pandemic,” said Cantil-Sakauye in a statement.
The Superior Court of Contra Costa will open all court locations to the public on Tuesday, May 26 at 8:00 a.m. Everyone who enters any court facility must wear a mask or face covering and need to have their temperature taken. In addition, drop boxes are still available from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The Superior Court of Alameda County announced that it will effectively reopen on June 1 and allow the court business to be conducted remotely within existing resources and technological limitations. They will resume hearing small claims trials and expand hearing opportunities for civil harassment, elder abuse, gun violence, and domestic violence restraining orders.
The Superior Court of Amador is also functioning on a modified schedule. The public can access to the courthouse between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., but the clerk’s office is still closed at this time. Domestic violence restraining orders, emergency child custody orders, and juvenile matters are top priorities.
The Superior Court of Calaveras will open the clerk’s window, but visitors are required to wear masks or face coverings. Drop boxes and eFiling are also available as alternative options.
For more court updates, please visit the California Lawyer Association’s website at https://calawyers.org/court-updates/.
