District Court changes announced

Clarion Top News

Thursday, 11 June 2020 12:48

In-person hearings have resumed for the Traffic and Criminal cases in the District Court of Jackson County. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they will not be conducted the same as they were just a few months ago. Before you come to court, please review the following recommendations/changes:
1. Please contact the district clerk’s office to see if your case can be settled without a court appearance. Most traffic citations can be paid online or by mail with a money order or cashier’s check. Fines, court costs or other payments should be paid before the actual day of court, if possible.
2. Everyone entering the courthouse, offices in the courthouse and courtrooms should maintain a minimum of six feet of separation.
3. The number of people allowed in the Courtroom at any one time will be limited and controlled by the courthouse personnel and security.
4. No one should enter the courthouse who has been diagnosed with, or has had contact with, anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, or has been asked to self-quarantine by any doctor, hospital, or health agency, or is sick or has a fever.
5. Personal protection equipment is encouraged for all parties and attorneys.
6. Negotiations between the State and parties should take place prior to the trial date, if possible, due to the need to maintain social distancing and the limited space available in the courthouse for negotiations.
7. To protect the health and safety of county inmates and those that work in the Jackson County Jail, inmates will not be transported to the courthouse except for trial.
8. Only plaintiffs, defendants, witnesses and attorneys will be allowed in the courtrooms. Family members and friends should remain outside the courthouse due to space limitations and the need to maintain social distancing. This provision is for the protection of the health and safety of all parties, attorneys and courthouse employees.