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Clark County Superior Court offers COVID-19 response

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in: COVID-19, Community News

Jury trials suspended through April 24; criminal jury trials and civil jury trials not yet in session are continued until at least April 27

VANCOUVER — The Superior Court bench met on Mon., March 16 to discuss the court’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Courthouse, Juvenile Courthouse and Family Law Annex facilities remain open but there are modifications to operations which should increase the safety of court participants and staff.

Beginning March 16, 2020:

  • All jury trials will be suspended through April 24, except those already in progress.
  • All criminal jury trials and civil jury trials not yet in session are CONTINUED until at least April 27, 2020.
  • Jurors summoned between March 16 and March 24 are excused from service.
  • Bench trials will remain an option.
  • The court is encouraging telephonic appearance for all civil, family law, probate, guardianship and dependency proceedings. Contact the assigned judicial department to arrange telephonic appearance.
  • Non-jury trials are not affected.  They will proceed as scheduled.

Persons exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, persistent cough, or shortness of breath are prohibited from entering Clark County Courthouse, Juvenile Courthouse, or the Family Law Annex. Any such person who does appear shall be refused entry.

Persons at a higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 and those who cannot enter the Courthouse who wish to avail themselves of an order to appear shall contact the appropriate judicial department to request other arrangements be made related to their court business.

Any changes to court hours or proceedings will be provided in future press releases. For the latest information on court operations visit: https://www.clark.wa.gov/superior-court

Superior Court staff members continue to follow guidance from Clark County Public Health to help protect the public’s health.  Employees and court participants should follow these recommendations while at the County Courthouse, Juvenile Courthouse and Family Law Annex:

  • Increase handwashing and use of alcohol-based sanitizer
  • Respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette – cover a cough or a sneeze
  • Keep distance from others (more than six feet, if possible)
  • Frequently clean and disinfect surfaces
  • Remain home if you are sick

Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.

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