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DISCLAIMER: This site is being updated live.

Please note that this is an internal AAJ document and is being updated as quickly as we can.
It is not to be forwarded or relied upon without independently checking each jurisdiction’s links.
See the links as they get refreshed and updated in real time.

Please send any missing information to AAJ State Affairs Staff or AAJStateAffairs@gmail.com
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StateLink 1Link 2Link 3Link 4Link 5 Link 6Link 7Link 8Link 9Link 10 Link 11Link 12Link 13Link 14Link 15Link 16Link 17Link 18Link 19Link 20 Link 21Link 22Link 23Link 24Link 25Link 26Link 27Link 28Link 29Link 30Link 31Link 32Link 33Link 34Court ClosureCivil Jury Trials DateCourt Reopening DateCommunications from Court About Reopening (See Court Reopening Guidance tab as well)Utilize Electronic Tech?Statute of Limitation or Deadline ExtensionSOL SimpleDiscoveryRemote Swearing of WitnessesRemote NotaryAnalysis of remote notaryUnsworn Declarations for Depositions
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Alabama March 13 Order - Link 13/17 Order3/24 Order4/2 Order4/23 Order4/30 Order5/13 Order7/7 Order8/20 Order11/29 OrderIn-person hearings CAN commence starting May 15 (need approval from Presiding Circuit Judge) and jury trials suspended until 9/14. But courts can restrict in-person hearings until August 159/14/20205/15/2020Urged (3/13 Order)Any deadlines (excluding SOL or statute of repose) set to expire from March 16-April 16 are extended to April 30, can't toll SOL and statute of repose --- see 4/2 Order NoUnclear but remote testimony of witness allowed through Dec 2020 (see 8/14 order)Allows remote swearing (3/24 order)Alabama Code 12-21-83 - Does NOT allow for Depositions
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Alaska March 13 Order - Link 1March 19 Order -Link 2March 23 Order 4/20 Order4/3 Order 5/11 Order6/15 Order8/6 Order9/2 Order9/24 Order10/29 Order11/13 Order 11/25 Order 2/4 Order4/6 Order 6/7 Order8/3 Order 8/31 Order 9/20 Order10/28 OrderOnly Palmer County's trials are suspended 1/10/20226/1/2020Regarding COVID-19 Visitor Health Precautions Not addressedFiling deadline in all cases are extended to 5/1/2020 in pending suspended cases (not clear if this includes SOL) (3/23), Courts are now accepting filings via email and fax (4/20 Order) UnclearJudges encouraged to use technology to continue court matters Encourage use of technology to continue court proceedings, HB 124 allows remote oath Alaska HB 124 goes into effect 1/1/2021Alaska Statute 09.63.020 - Does NOT cover depositions
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Arizona March 16 Order - Link 1March 18 Order - Link 2April 6 OrderMay 8 OrderMay 20 OrderJuly 15 OrderAugust 26 OrderOrder Allow Resummoning Jurors (11/4)12/3 Order April 15 Order May 21 Order Trials of cases to a jury may resume when Arizona enters Phase I. When
considering when and how to restart jury trials, courts should consult the
guidance provided in the Arizona Jury Management Subgroup Best Practice
Recommendations During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. To the
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extent the Jury Management Subgroup’s report is inconsistent with any
Administrative Order, the most recent version of the Administrative Order
controls.......For cases where the right to a jury trial has not been waived, but where the
availability of courthouse facilities, judicial officers or court employees require
prioritization and recognizing that constitutional and statutory priorities govern
for specific issues raised in a specific case, trials shall be scheduled in the
following order of priority:
(a) Criminal felony and misdemeanor cases, where the defendant is in custody;
(b) Sexually violent person cases;
(c) Criminal felony cases, where the defendant is not in custody;
(d) Criminal misdemeanor cases, where the defendant is not in custody; and
(e) Civil and any other jury trial cases.
Allowed (AZ in Phase I)Open (AZ in Phase I)Task Force Recommendations Allowed (3/18 Order)The period of March 18, 2020 through September 30, 2020 is excluded from
calculation of time under rule provisions and statutory procedures that require
court proceedings to be held within a specific period of time, including Rule 8,
Rules of Criminal Procedure; Rules 17, 25, 79 and 100, Rules of Procedure for
the Juvenile Court; Rules 2, 3, 11(c) and 15, Rules of Procedure for Eviction
Actions; and Rule 38.1(d)(2), Rules of Civil Procedure. After September 30,
2020 and notwithstanding Rules 8.1(e) and 8.4(a)(4), the presiding superior
court judge may exclude additional time from individual cases or groups of
cases due to trial calendar congestion or, at the request of the trial judge, due to
extraordinary circumstances caused by COVID-19 public health emergency.
YesUnclearLiberally granting accomodations for witnesses (3/18/18)Arizona SB 1030 (signed into law 4/10/19; effective 7/1/19)Authorizes remote online notarization (see also this AZ Code Section)Arizona Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 80 - Does Not Cover Depositions
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Arkansas March 17 Order - Link 13/20 Order4/3 OrderMay 8 Order6/11 Order11/20 Order1/5 Order 2/12 Order 3/18 Order4/8 Order Therefore,
we announce an end to the suspension of jury trials effective May 1, 2021.
5/1/20216/30/2020Memo Regarding Circuit Court Continuity of Operations Allowed and Encouraged (3/17 Order)Doesn't seem to be extended any longer No See order here -- nothing should stop technology use if proper notice given Judges encouraged to use technology to continue court mattersEO 20-12 (effective until state of emergency is declared over)Suspends requirements related to in-person signature and witnesses requirements
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California Court News Page - Link 1March 23 Order - Link 2CAOC County ListMarch 27 OrderCA Court Emergency Rules 4/6May 29 Judicial Rule (SOL's)*FROM LAW 360* In the state court system, all Los Angeles County Superior Court judges are required to wear face masks in public areas inside courthouses. Criminal jury trials have restarted, but civil jury trials are postponed until January. Civil nonjury trials may not start before Nov. 16. The court reopened to the public on June 15, but the clerk's office and self-help centers in every courthouse are accessible by appointment only.11/16/2020 (some trials have taken place) This is most dictated on lower court level 6/15/2020Pandemic Continuity of Operations GuideMay (4/6)The new rule will restart statutes of limitations on set dates, and will:

Suspend from April 6 to October 1 the statutes of limitations and repose for civil causes of action that exceed 180 days

Suspend from April 6 to August 3 the statutes of limitations and repose for civil causes of action that are 180 days or less.

Causes of action with short-term statutes of limitation and repose have the more immediate deadline of August 3 because those deadlines are designed to ensure that any challenges in those matters are raised more quickly. This end date will also ensure courts can process civil actions, while providing certainty and reasonable notice to litigants of the end of the suspension period.
YesA court may hold any proceeding under this rule via remote technology consistent with rule 5.531 and emergency rule 3.Notwithstanding any other law, including Code of Civil Procedure section 2025.310(a) and (b), and rule 3.1010(c) and (d), a party or nonparty deponent, at
their election or the election of the deposing party, is not required to be present with the deposition officer at the time of the deposition + Court can hold proceedings remotely (see April 6 Emergency Rules)
California Code of Civil Procedure 2015.5 (1981) -- does not cover depots
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Colorado March 16 Order - Link 1Intermediate Court March 16 Order - Link 2Order Extending Prohibition on Jury Calls 3/20April 16 Order May 5 Order6/15 Order7/24 OrderFrom CO Court Website (updated 11/30) As the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak in Colorado develops, the Judicial Department is continually working to balance legitimate public health considerations with the necessity to maintain fair and effective administration of justice for citizens and communities in our state.

Each jurisdiction is posting materials on this website with important information for jurors, litigants, and probationers about protocols for appearing in court. This information is in response to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak, and outlines the decisions and procedures created by each court to operate during the outbreak. Information is available for county and district courts via the court’s individual webpage.

This public health event is rapidly changing. We will update instructions about each court as they become available. Please see the website for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment or the Centers for Disease Control for general information on the COVID-19 outbreak in Colorado.

Please click on the links below to access the information for the court in your particular jurisdiction. In some cases, you may need to contact the court directly for more information.
8/3/2020 (author. required)8/3/2020Not addressedUnclearUnclearUnclearStates courts should make every effort to eliminate in person contact, but also specifies only certain proceedings should be heard during this time SB 20-096Allows remote online notarization CRS 13-27-101 through 108 (2018) - does not cover depos
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Connecticut Court News Page - Link 1Court Site - Link 2Briefing Deadline - Link 3Reduced Courthouse Days (4/3)June 10 OrderJuly 20 Order10/13 Notice Accordingly, by direction of the Chief Justice, the Judicial Branch will resume summoning jurors to courthouses throughout the state to restart the jury trial process as of June 1, 2021. As we have done since the beginning of the pandemic, we are undertaking this jury resumption initiative in continuing consultation with Connecticut public health officials and in compliance with directives from the Governor.6/1/21Some courthouses have reopened See guide for attorneys on remote hearingsStatute of limitations suspended for duration of public helath and civil preparadness emergency but see June 10 orderYesUnclearRemote Proceedings Doc CT Executive Order extending remote notary through rest of public emergency Temporarily authorizing remote notarization
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Delaware March 16 Order -Link 1March 18 Announcement - Link 2March 22 Order - Link 34/14 Order 5/14 Order5/29 Phased Reopening 7/6 Order8/5 Order9/4 Memo 10/2 Order 11/2 Order11/16 Press Release 12/2 Order12/14 Order12/30 Order 1/28 Order3/3 Order 3/12 Order3/31 Order4/30 Order 5/26 Order 6/29 Order 7/15 Order 12/9 (Mask guidance)In accordance with the Chief Justice’s June 29, 2021 Order that the Courts return to normal
court rules and procedures including amended speedy trial guidelines that had been placed on
hold during the pandemic, all criminal locations shall immediately resume the scheduling of inperson proceedings but shall continue to adhere to the minimal social distancing measures that
still remain in place. These measures include a limit on lobby capacity as set forth in Exhibit 2
to this Order which will necessarily limit court calendars. The standards set forth in the Policy
on Speedy Trial Guidelines attached hereto as Exhibit 1 shall be effective immediately.
Criminal locations are encouraged to continue to employ alternatives to in-person appearances,
such as virtual appearances, for the sake of convenience, efficiency, to assist in clearing the
backlog of cases, and to meet the mandates set forth within the Speedy Trial Guidelines.
2) All civil locations shall resume the scheduling of in-person proceedings for non-landlord/tenant
cases effective immediately but shall continue to adhere to the minimal social distancing
measures that still remain in place. These measures include a limit on lobby capacity as set
forth in Exhibit 2 to this Order which will necessarily limit court calendars. Civil locations are
encouraged to continue to employ alternatives to in-person appearances, such as virtual
appearances, for the sake of convenience, efficiency and to assist in clearing the backlog of
cases.
7/13/20216/15/2020 (Phase 2) Civil court reopening document Shall use (3/22 Order)Statutes of limitations and statutes of repose that would
otherwise expire during the period between March 23, 2020 and June
13, 2020 are extended through July 1, 2020. Deadlines, statutes of
limitations, and statutes of repose that are not set to expire between
March 23, 2020 and June 13, 2020 are not extended or tolled by this
order.
YesUnclearSwearing requirement suspended for period of judicial emergency (April 15)Supreme Court Order allowing remote notary through Aug 6, 202010 DE Code 3927
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District of Columbia Court News Page - Link 1March 19 Order - Link 23/30 Addendum5/14 Order11/5 Order (DC Superior Court)1/13 Order 3/30 Order 5/19 Order 6/25 Order 7/14 Order9/11 Order 11/21 Order12/23 Order (Court of Appeals) 12/30 (Superior Court)CIVIL DIVISION
Jury trials scheduled through February 11, 2022 will be continued to
the earliest possible date after February 11, 2022.
May 20215/15/2020Not addressedUnless 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,
except in any Civil 1 or 2 case subject to Rule 12‐I of the Superior Court Rules of
Civil Procedure, any suspension, tolling, or extension of the time to file any
response or reply concerning a motion ends on May 15, 2020 with respect to all
counsel who registered for E‐filing before March 18, 2020.
YesUnclearUnclearSCR Civil 9-I (2011) - does not cover depos
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Florida Court News Page - Link 1March 13 Order - Link 2March 18 Order - Link 3March 24 Order 4/6 Order5/4 Order 6/16 Order7/2 Order 8/12 Order10/2 Order 10/15 Phases of Reopening 11/23 Order11/23 Second Order 12/21 Order2/17 Order 3/9 Order3/26 Order 4/13 Order7/29 Order11/4 Order 1/8 OrderRemote Civil and Criminal Jury Trials.
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision in this administrative order, a
judicial circuit may remotely conduct:
a. Civil jury trials if all parties consent to participating in the remote trial.
Remote civil jury trials permitted -- in person permitted if in phase 230 days after phase 2Guide from Florida CourtsAllow and encouraged (3/24)UnclearUnclearUnclear Yes (Order on 3/18/2020)Florida HB 409 (signed into law 6/7/19; effective 1/1/2020)Authorize remote online notarizationFlorida Statute 92.525
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Georgia March 14 Order - Link 1Filing Deadlines - Link 24/6 Order5/4 Order 5/11 Order6/12 Order7/10 Order8/11 Order9/10 Order10/10 Order11/9 Order 12/9 Order12/23 Amended Order 1/8 Order 2/7 Order3/9 Order 4/8 Order5/8 Order 6/7 OrderHowever, as discussed in the
Notice of Expected Termination of Statewide Judicial Emergency
on June 30, 2021 issued separately today by the Chief Justice, it is
anticipated that the Public Health State of Emergency declared by
the Governor may expire at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021.
Accordingly, the Order Declaring Statewide Judicial Emergency,
which would have expired on Monday, June 7, 2021, at 11:59 p.m., is
further extended but only until Wednesday, June 30, at 11:59 p.m. If the
Public Health State of Emergency expires before June 30, the Order
Declaring Statewide Judicial Emergency will expire at the same time by
operation of law. Until this Order expires, all Georgia courts shall continue
to operate under the requirements set forth in the Order as extended, as
discussed below. However, courts and litigants should prepare for the
expiration of the statewide judicial emergency.
3/9/2021In-person proceedings allowed under guidance The Chief Justice will create a special task force to assist courts in conducting remote proceedings and to develop plans for the safe resumption of more extensive in-court proceedings, including jury trials and grand jury proceedings. The task force will include judges representing every class of court, who will obtain input from prosecutors and public defenders, civil trial attorneys, court clerks, and sheriffs.All courts should continue to use and increase the use of
technology to conduct remote judicial proceedings as a safer alternative
to in-person proceedings, unless required by law to be in person or unless
it is not practicable for technical or other reasons for persons
participating in the proceeding to participate remotely.
Consistent with Section I above, 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. This provision
does not apply to deadlines calculated by reference to the date of nonjury (bench) trials.
(2) All other deadlines imposed on litigants shall be
reimposed effective as of July 14, 2020, as further explained below.
UnclearGrants relief from filing deadlines for discovery Remote notarization permitted (4/9 Order) See remote notarization permitted in column to the left In place until public emergency is declared over
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Hawaii Court News Page - Link 1March 16 Order - Link 13/19 Order 4/1 Press Release4/17 Order 5/28 Order6/23 Order7/28 Order9/28 Order 10/14 Order 11/25 Order 12/23 Order 2/12 Order 4/12 Order5/14 Order 6/7 Order6/15 Order 8/6 Order8/16 Order10/15 Order11/12 Order11/29 Order12/23 OrderAll jury trials shall be postponed to dates on or
after February 28, 2022, unless otherwise ordered by the chief
judge of the respective circuit. This order does not affect any
order regarding non-jury trials.
















IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the September 29, 2021 First
Extension of Order Postponing Jury Trials is modified to provide
that jury trials may resume on Monday, November 15, 2021. The
September 29, 2021 Order remains in effect in all other
respects.
7/31/2020Order Regarding Entering Judiciary Facilities May (circuit discretion) 3/16 OrderUnclearUnclearSee Executive Order (Section O)
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Idaho March 13 Order - Link 1Idaho March 23 Amended Order March 26 OrderApril 14 Order April 21 Order April 22 Order July 24 Order9/11 Order 10/8 Order 11/9 Order11/23 Order 12/14 Order2/3 Order 5/20 Order 8/30 Order9/10 Order9/22 Order10/6 Order11/23 Order11/29 Order1/12 Order1/18 OrderNo jury trial, whether civil or criminal, shall commence between
September 27 ,2021, and December 6, 2021
3/1/21Open (with restrictions)Shall (emergency) (3/26 Order)ln the evenr a deadline has been set by court order or mle and the last day for filing any
document. holding any hearing, or doing any other thing or matter in any court fails on or
betwcen March 26, 2020 and April 30, 2020 when couris a€ reducing operarions, the time for
filing or doing arry other thing in any court shall be extended until May 1,2020. I'his inclutles
the filing of responsive pleadings, norices of appeal. and petitions for post-c<rnviction relief. In
the evenl a hearing has been scheduled to occur duriag the effective date of this order, the date
lor the hearing shall be reset by the presiding judge to occur after April 30, 2020
UnclearSee deadline column Allow remote oaths (see here) and allowing remote appearances Idaho SB 1111 (signed into law 3/21/19; effective 1/1/2020)Authorizes remote notarization using communications technologyIdaho Statute 9-1406 (2013) - does not cover depos
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Illinois March 17 Order - Link 1March 18 Paper Copies Order - Link 24/3 Order 4/7 Order 5/20 OrderOrder Allowing Remote Jury Instruction (10/27)5/27 Order *FROM LAW 360* In the state court system, face masks must be worn to enter any courthouse. Court operations vary by district, and information on specific circuits can be found here. On Sept. 1, the Illinois Supreme Court issued a temporary order limiting in-person appearances through changes to fee waiver applications and summonses. Details can be found here.Lower court level Lower Court LevelSUPREME COURT GUIDELINES FOR RESUMING ILLINOIS JUDICIAL BRANCH
OPERATIONS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Shall (emergency) should (non emergency) (3/17 Order)Says courts can modify deadlines (unclear if that includes SOL), For anything filed March 16 - March 31, court is giving 14 days to provide 13 copies of certain e-filing docs (3/18/2020), see 3/24 order about Sup. Ct and Ct of AppUnclearSee this order regarding remote discovery If feasible, court hearings should be done remotely, see order about removing in person requirement for remote oath 735 ILCS 5/1-109 (2019)
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Indiana March 16 Order - Link 13/25 Order3/31 Order4/22 Order -- Live stream court hearings 4/24 Order5/13 Order5/29 Order11/10 OrderTask Force Guidance (11/16)12/14 OrderMemo on 8/11 2/5 Order (2022)But conditions statewide are improving, and while we must remain vigilant and safe, we
write to tell you to begin planning for the statewide order suspending jury trials to expire on
March 1. It will not be extended
3/1/2021Lower Court LevelResuming Operations of Trial CourtsRemote proceedings now allowed through end of 2020The Court authorizes the tolling, through August 14, 2020, of all laws, rules, and
procedures setting time limits for speedy trials in criminal and juvenile proceedings;
public health and mental health matters; all judgments, support, and other orders; and
in all other civil and criminal matters before Indiana trial courts. Further, no interest
shall be due or charged during this tolled period
UnclearEncourages individual courts to suspend deadlines if need be Allows remote administration of oath (3/31 order) + live streaming of hearings (4/22 order) -- these are all now allowed through end of 2020Indiana SB 372 (signed into law 3/13/18; effective 7/1/19)Authorizes remote notarial acts through audio visual communication
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Iowa March 17 Order - Link 13/27 Order3/31 Order 4/6 Order5/22 Order7/9 Order7/22 Order11/10 Order 11/24 Order11/30 Order 5/14 Order6/21 Order 8/27 Order12/8 OrderProtocols put in place during pandemic will continue until Jan. 20222/1/20219/14/2020Shall unless respondent requests in person (3/27 Order)Any statute of limitations, statute of repose, or similar
deadline for commencing an action in district court is hereby tolled from
March 17, 2020 to June 1, 2020 (76 days). Tolling means that amount of
time to the statute of limitations or similar deadline. The 76 days of tolling
will apply if the deadline for commencing the action would otherwise expire
any time from March 17, 2020 to December 31, 2020. In other words, if the
statute would otherwise run on July 7, 2020, it now runs on September
21, 2020 (76 days later). However, after December 31, 2020, any tolling
will be phased out and eliminated. Thus, if the deadline for commencing
the action would otherwise expire on any date from December 31, 2020 to
March 16, 2021 (the 76th day of 2021), inclusive, that deadline would
become March 17, 2021, and thereafter there would be no tolling at all.
YesSays deadlines similar to SOL are postponed until May 4, but unclear if that includes discovery Nonemergency inperson hearings, including evidentiary hearings such as hearings on
motions to suppress, shall resume according to the same schedule set
forth for nonjury trials in paragraph 6.
Iowa SF 475 (signed into law 4/29/19; effective 7/1/20)Authorizes remote notarization (for county real property filings), opened early *Temporarily authorized under Emergency Proclamation (03/22/20)
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Kansas March 18 Order - Link 1Kansas SOL Extension Statute 4/3 Order5/1 --Courts with stay at home order 5/1 -- courts without stay at home order 6/16 Order 8/4 Order9/4 Order 9/15 Order11/13 order 12/1 Order 12/15 Order1/8 Order1/26 Order 3/16 Order Kansas resintating many deadlines starting Aug 2For any court not operating under 2020-PR-049, a hearing (including a jury trial)
can be conducted with no more than the number of people who can be
accommodated with six-foot of physical distance between people or engineering
adjustments approved by a local health officer in the courtroom or any other
facility used by the court for a proceeding. All surfaces must be cleaned between
hearings. All hearings must also comply with applicable recommendations for
mass gatherings in Ad Astra: A plan to Reopen Kansas, unless the departmental
justice authorizes a waiver of these provisions. If a public health order or guidance
restricts the number of people who may be gathered, the court must abide by that
restriction.
6. Courts not operating under 2020-PR-049 may resume holding jury proceedings,
regardless of whether there is a constitutional speedy trial issue, after the chief
judge has complied with the following:
 Consulted with the head of the local public health department or his or her
designee to determine how to resume jury proceedings given local risk and the
facilities available; and
 Developed written plans approved by the Office of Judicial Administration for
implementing the Supreme Court mandates regarding resuming jury
proceedings that will be posted on the Kansas judicial branch website along
with best practice guidance.
Certain courts can resume jury trials. See Order State Wide - No Date05/27 Orders for gradual reopeningMust avail remote (3/18 Order) and have to use for non emergency, can use for emergency (4/3 order)See order here ending extension for most deadlines on April 15, 2021 YesCourts must continue to expand the use of remote hearings as much as possible to
reduce any backlog and to dispose of new cases efficiently and safely. Courts must
follow any virtual hearing mandates and should consider best practice guidance, if
any, when issued and posted on the Kansas judicial branch website and any
updates that follow. When mandates or guidance and related updates are issued, it
will be announced on the Kansas judicial branch website and communicated to
chief judges.
Allows remote notarization and use of technology See order linked in column on the left Kansas Statute 53-601 (1989)
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Kentucky March 13 Order - Link 1March 26 Order4/1 Order4/14 Order 4/24 Order 5/15 Order5/29 Order7/27 Order11/20 Order 1/6 Order2/25 Order 5/18 Order 8/9 Order (two different ones) 8/9 Order (two different ones)Petit Jurors and Jury Trials. Jury trials may resume after May 1,
2021. Jury trials shall only resume if the trial judge determines in
his or her discretion, after having considered local public health
conditions and the health and safety requirements established by
the Supreme Court, that it is advisable.
5/1/20215/31/2020Guidelines for Expanding Operations
Courts shall resume hearing civil and criminal matters using available telephonic and video technology to conduct all proceedings remotely. Remote proceedings shall be scheduled through the judge’s office.
The 60-day period in RCr 5.22(3) is tolled from March 16, 2020, until
the expiration of this Order. Any extension of the 60-day period
granted by a circuit court under the authority of Administrative Order
2020-22 or any prior Administrative Order2 is also tolled until the
expiration of this Order. Any case where the 60-day period or an
extension thereof was tolled by operation of this Order shall be
presented to the grand jury within 60 days from the expiration of this
Order.
After the expiration of this order, courts are encouraged to give priority
in setting hearing and trial dates to cases where the defendant is in
custody and proceedings have been tolled by the Supreme Court’s
response to the COVID-19 emergency.
NoUnclearJudges encouraged to use technology for necessary hearings, To the extent possible and consistent with social distancing practices,
attorneys should continue to prepare and litigate cases during the
effective dates of this Order, including providing discovery, negotiating
possible resolutions, filing motions, and conducting investigations, for
the purpose of minimizing delay in bringing cases to trial or resolution
upon the expiration of this order.
Kentucky SB 114 (signed into law 3/25/19; effective 1/1/2020)Authorizes online appearance before an online notary after SOS sets up regulations
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Louisiana March 20 Order - Link 1Executive Order - Link 2March 23 Order4/6 Order4/22 Order4/29 Order 5/15 Order6/5 Order1/11 Order2/11 Order No civil or criminal jury trial shall
commence in any Louisiana state court before April 1, 2021.
Civil and criminal jury trials that are in progress as of
the date of this Order may continue to conclusion, in the
discretion of the local court.
Postponed until 4/1/21OpenShould (3/23 Order)All filings which were or are due to this Court between
Thursday, March 12, 2020 through Monday, June 15, 2020 shall be
considered timely if filed no later than Tuesday, June 16, 2020.
Parties who are unable to meet this deadline due to the COVID-19
emergency may submit motions for extensions of time, supported
by appropriate documentation and argument.
UnclearRemote Proceedings: The consent for remote proceedings in
civil matters required in Section 6 of this Court’s April 6,
2020 Order shall not be unreasonably withheld by any party,
which shall be enforced by the trial judge pursuant to the
authority granted by Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Article
191, or as expressly provided by law.
Remote notary law in effectSee law linked on the left
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Maine March 18 Order - Link 1March 17 Deadline Order - Link 2March 25 OrderMarch 30 Order4/22 Order May 5 Order 5/28 Order 6/17 Order7/29 Order 9/4 Order 10/8 Order 11/3 Order6/1 Order 7/13 Announcement Face Mask order 10/1 OrderThe Maine Judicial Branch announced today that the chiefs of Maine's trial courts have issued a Post Pandemic Management Order-TC-1 (PPMO-TC-1) rescinding Pandemic Management Order-TC-1, originally issued March 30, 2020 and revised most recently on February 17, 2021. The earlier PMO-TC-1 provided for certain changes in court procedures in response to the public health emergency posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

PPMO-TC-1 issued today states that after closely following the Maine and U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the trial court chiefs have determined that the earlier emergency PMO-TC-1 is no longer necessary to address public health concerns and is therefore rescinded.

Maine trial courts comprise 29 District Courts and 17 Superior Courts throughout the state.
11/9/2020OpenJudicial Management PlanSee 9/4 Order Extends unexpired deadlines 49 days BUT this does not apply to SOL's (3/17/2020)NoSee 9/4 OrderRemote swearing permitted Order is very specific related to remote notary and remote deposition, please see specific order
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Maryland Court News Page - Link 1March 20 Order - Link 2March 25 Order - Link 3April 3 OrderApril 14 Order6/3 Order 10/2 Order 11/12 Order11/24 Order12/22 Order2/2 Order 2/16 Order5/25 Order Sept. oral arguments will be virtual 8/20 Order9/15 Order10/22 Order12/27 Order1/14 OrderDue to the emergence of the highly contagious Omicron variant, the Judicial
branch reverted, on an interim basis from December 29, 2021, through February
8, 2020, and is hereby extended through March 6, 2022, pending further order, to
Phase III emergency operations as described in the Exhibit appended to this
Administrative Order, except as follows:
4/26/2021**Back to phase 3 6/03 Progressive Resumption of Judiciary OperationsAuthorized (4/3)See order here YesUnclear but encouraging remote proceedings to continue + judges to be avail via emailCourt of appeals explicitly allowing remote hearings and authorizes other judges to do so as wellMaryland SB 678 (signed into law 5/13/19; effective 10/1/2020)Authorizes remote notarization using communications technology, also see this Executive Order
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Massachusetts Court News Page - Link 1March 17 Order - Link 2March 20 Order Remote Swearing - Link 34/1 Order4/6 Order4/27 Order5/26 Order6/24 Order7/7 Order7/29 Order10/1 Order (Superior Court)11/20 Release 1/8 OrderApril 15, 20217/1 Order 12/31 Order1/24 OrderIn response to the current situation in the Commonwealth with respect to COVID-19, the Supreme Judicial Court partially amended an existing order on January 24, 2022, to extend the pause on all jury trials in Massachusetts state courthouses until February 14, 2022. All courts otherwise will remain open for in-person business, with a continued emphasis on conducting matters remotely whenever possible.1/11/20216/13/2020 (Open)Can unless emer that must be solved in person (3/17 Order)All civil statutes of limitations were tolled by Prior SJC Orders from March 17, 2020, through June 30, 2020, and will not be tolled any further unless there is a new surge in COVID-19 cases in the Commonwealth and the SJC determines that a new or extended period of tolling is needed. All criminal statutes of limitation are tolled from March 17, 2020, through September 30, 2020, because of the limited availability of grand juries. The new date for the expiration of a statute of limitation is calculated as follows: determine how many days remained as of March 17, 2020, until the statute of limitation would have expired, and that same number of days will remain as of July 1, 2020 in civil cases and as of September 30, 2020 in criminal cases. For example, if fourteen (14) days remained as of March 17 before the statute of limitation would have expired in a civil case, then fourteen (14) days will continue to remain as of July 1, before the statute of limitation expires (i.e., July 15), and if fourteen (14) days remained as of March 17 before the statute of limitation would have expired in a criminal case, then fourteen (14) days will continue to remain as of September 30, before the statute of limitation expires (i.e., October 14).



YesUnclearYes (Order on 3/20/2020) Supreme Court Order (Order on 3/20/2020) Mass. Superior Court Rule 15 - does not cover depos
27
Michigan March 15 Order - Link 1March 18 Order - Link 23/23 Order3/26 Order3/27 Order4/10 Order4/23 Order4/7 Memo from Judge re remote hearing6/26 OrderTrials allowed but many courts postponing until further notice/2021 because of a rise in cases. The Michigan Supreme Court has urged courts to not conduct jury trials unless there is a seven-day average of fewer than 70 COVID-19 cases per million per day in the county, or if there have been fewer than 20 new cases per day over the last seven days. Phase 3/court approval **many postponingNo statewide date -- see local ordersReturn to Full Capacity Guide Courts shall continue to expand the use of remote participation technology (video
or telephone) as much as possible to reduce any backlog and to dispose of new cases
efficiently and safely
Filing deadlines commence again on June 8, 2020NoSee this order re: remote jury trials See executive orderMichigan H 5811 (signed into law 6/28/18; effective 3/30/19)Requires the Secretary of State to review, and authorizes the Secretary to approve, remote electronic notarization platforms. Please also see MI Executive Order Michigan Section 600.2184 (does not apply to depositions)
28
Minnesota March 20 Order - Link 13/26 Order4/9 Order 5/1 Order 5/15 Order5/28 Orderr11/20 Order1/21 Order3/22 Order5/25 Order 7/30 OrderSee 5/25 Order 6/14/2021OpenReturn to Full Capacity Guide Shall unless must be held in court room(3/20 Order)MN HF 4556 -- (a) The running of deadlines imposed by statutes governing proceedings in the district
and appellate courts, including any statutes of limitations or other time periods prescribed
by statute, is suspended during the peacetime emergency declared on March 13, 2020, in
governor's Executive Order 20-01 and any extensions authorized under Minnesota Statutes,
section 12.31, subdivision 2, and for 60 days after the end of the peacetime emergency
declaration. Nothing in this paragraph prevents a court from holding a hearing, requiring
an appearance, or issuing an order during the peacetime emergency if the judge determines
that individual circumstances relevant to public safety, personal safety, or other emergency
matters require action in a specific case.
(b) This section expires 60 days after the end of the peacetime emergency declaration
described in paragraph (a) or February 15, 2021, whichever is earlier.
EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective the day following final enactment and
applies to all deadlines that had not expired as of March 13, 2020, or were triggered on or
after that date.
YesStill accepting filings but doesn't specifically say anything about discovery Minnesota Statute 358.645 allows e-notary to remote swear witnesses.Minnesota SF 893 (signed into law 5/20/18; effective 1/1/19)Authorizes notaries to perform remote online notarial acts.Minnesota Statute 358.116
29
Mississippi March 13 Order - Link 1March 17 Order - Link 2March 20 Order on Remote Swearing of Witness - Link 3May 7 Order May 14 Order7/23 Order8/5 Order8/5 2021 Order9/2 Order10/13 Order12/30 Order1/11 Order1/27/22 Order Individual judges have the discretion to postpone jury trials scheduled through
Friday. February 25, 2022.
6/15/2020Open Urged to use (3/20 Order)UnclearUnclearUnclearRemote swearing of witnesses allowed (3/20)
30
Missouri Court News Page - Link 1March 22 Order - Link 24/1 OrderEO Remote Notary4/17 Order6/5 Order7/24 Order8/2 Letter In addition to meeting the Gateway Criteria set forth in this Court’s May 4, 2020, Operational Directives, in order to conduct grand or petit jury proceedings under any phase, the presiding judge must determine whether the circuit has the proper facilities (or alternative facilities) and equipment in place to conduct jury proceedings in compliance with social distancing protocols, local occupancy rate limitations, and other recommended health and safety strategies.

3. A court must complete at least fourteen days in an operating phase before it can proceed to the next operating phase. Therefore, the earliest a court could enter Phase Three would be June 13, 2020.

4. Absent exigent circumstances, jury proceedings are not anticipated prior to a court’s implementation of Phase Three as set forth in the current Operational Directives.
Unclear -- must complete certain phases Likely open but limitedJune 5 Order Encourages (4/1 Order)Individual judges can waive deadlines EXCEPT deadline set by statute or constitutional provision UnclearUnclear (but says deadlines not set by statute or constit. provision can be extended)Remote notarization permitted (4/6 EO)
31
Montana March 13 Order - Link 1March 17 Order - Link 23/27 Order4/22 Order 4/27 Memo 5/22 Memo 12/21 Order 5/17 Order Jury trials permitted -- must maintain social distance and safety precautions 5/4/20205/4/202004/22 OrderCan (non-emergency), must (emergency) (3/27 Order)UnclearUnclearContinue using remote-hearing or telephonic hearings for cases, which will allow
you to limit the number of people in a courthouse and in a courtroom.
Attorneys or litigants who are considered to be at high-risk if exposed to COVID19 should be allowed to appear remotely if requesting to do so.
Encourages things to be done remotely as possible but requires for emergency hearings Montana HB 370 (signed into law on 4/3/19; effective 10/1/19)Authorizes remote notarization (expands previous remote notarization law)Montana Code 1-6-105 (2011) - does not apply to depos
32
Nebraska March 12 Order - Link 16/30 Order11/6 Order5/21 Order 8/9 Order No court closures for all state courts, some individual courts have issued their own, encourages people who have COVID or risk having it to postponeLower Court LevelLower Court LevelNot addressed UnclearUnclearUnclearUnclear but see e-notary lawNebraska LB 186 (signed into law on 5/30/19; effective 7/1/2020)Authorizes online notarization via communication technology
33
Nevada March 18 Order - Link 1Nevada 4/1 EONevada does not have statewide orders, they are doing them by court. See here for Supreme Court. See here for district court. Lower Court LevelLower Court LevelNot addressed4/1 Executive Order -- Any specific time limit set by state statute or regulation for the commencement of any legal action is hereby tolled from the date of this Directive until 30 days from the date the state of emergency declared on March 12, 2020 is terminated.YesUnclearUnclear but see e-notary lawNevada A. 413 (signed into law 6/9/17; effective 7/1/18)Authorizes electronic notarial acts remotely using audio-video communication
34
New Hampshire March 16 Order - Link 13/27 Order -- Circuit Courts 6/16 Order 7/7 Order7/23 Order8/13 Order 9/4 Order **Different orders for Supreme Court, District Court, and Superior Court 9/24 Order **Different orders for each level of court 10/16 **Different for Superior and Circuit 11/6 **Different orders for each Court 11/24 **Different orders for each court 12/18 **Different for each court 1/7 **Different for each court 1/29 **Different for each court2/18 Order 3/11 Order *Different for each court 4/1 Order **Different for each court 4/23 Order 5/14 Order12/22 Press Release Chief Justice of the Superior Court Tina Nadeau announces the postponement of all jury trials and grand juries in New Hampshire Superior Court throughout the state through the month of January. The Superior Court had already scheduled a pause in jury trials for the last week in January as a result of the Criminal Defense Task Force recommendation. All New Hampshire courts will continue to remain open for the public for all other purposes. 6/7/20219/7/2020To comply with the ongoing recommendations to mitigate the risks of
COVID-19, the court will conduct many of the above-referenced cases
telephonically or by video, to the extent possible. However, for trials in
criminal matters referenced in paragraph 4(a) or adjudicatory hearings in
Delinquency/CHINS matters referenced in paragraph 4(g) and (h), in-person
hearings shall be scheduled and transport orders issued as necessary, unless
the defendant/juvenile waives in-person participation. The court will notify
parties if their hearing will be conducted telephonically and/or by video.
All deadlines set forth in court rules, court orders, statutes, ordinances,
administrative rules, administrative orders or otherwise are no longer extended
and are in effect, except that the deadlines for scheduling of hearings may be
extended as the needs of the trial court require.
NoUnclear but encourages judges to use electronic methods for filing and respondingJudge discretion whether to do hearings by phone or computer New Hampshire (03/23/20)Emergency Order temporarily authorizing remote notarization
35
New Jersey Court News Page - Link 1March 17 Order - Link 23/24 Order -- Suspends depos for medical professionals 3/27 Order4/20 Order4/24 Admin Order 5/28 Order6/25 Order7/9 Order7/24 Order8/12 Notice 9/22 Update 11/16 Order1/7 Order 3/4 Order 5/11 Order 6/2 Order Mask Requirement The Supreme Court has authorized the resumption of in-person criminal jury
trials, and some in-person civil jury trials, effective on or after June 15, 2021.
Criminal jury trials will be conducted in person and will be the priority, with cases
that involve detained defendants continuing to receive the highest priority. Most
civil jury trials at present will continue to be conducted in a virtual format. The
Court’s May 11, 2021 Order is attached.
The Court’s authorization to resume in-person jury trials is based on
improved COVID-19 trends throughout New Jersey. In-person jury trials will be
conducted with necessary health precautions, including social distancing and the
requirement that participants wear face masks except in limited circumstances
when other health protections are in place. As announced in this May 6, 2021
notice, up to 50% of judges and state court employees will be present in state court
locations as of June 15, 2021. Those on-site judges and state court employees will
support upcoming in-person jury trials and other court events.
Virtual civil jury trial starting 2/1/2021Open (limited entry)Should be/will be (3/27 Order)Most Extensions of Discovery Deadlines and Tolling of Time Periods Will End as of May
10,2020
Based on the demonstrated increased ability of the courts to handle matters
remotely, combined with the new electronic filing options available to attorneys and selfrepresented litigants, legal practice generally can continue consistent with regular
timeframes. To that end, most discovery deadlines in Civil and Family matters generally
are extended through May 10, 2020, with lengthier extensions only in specific areas.
1
Discovery involving medical professionals is extended through May 31 , 2020, based on
the ongoing unavailability of those experts.
No (ended)Rule 4:26-1(a), (c) and 4:36-3 relaxed and supplemented and discovery deadlines extended until April 26 + encouraging electronic depositions, etc.Motions and hearing handled via teleconference, does not specifically mention witnessesSupreme Court order allowing remote swearing of witnesses (remote depos and oaths)
36
New Mexico Court News Page - Link 1March 17 Order - Link 2March 23 OrderApril 16 Order 5/28 Order11/13 Order12/14 Order5/4 Order8/23 OrderCivil and criminal jury trials scheduled to commence on or after
3 November 16, 2020, are suspended until January 1, 2021, and civil and criminal jury
4 trials shall resume by February 1, 2021. The resumption of civil and criminal jury
5 trials shall occur in each judicial district pursuant to individualized plans submitted
6 by the chief judge in each judicial district for approval by the Supreme Court.
7 2. Jury trials and other in-person proceedings shall be held in a manner
8 that allows the press and members of the public to attend in person or, if necessary
9 to comply with the social distancing requirements in these Emergency Court
10 Protocols, by audio or audio-video connection.
2/1/2021Open Must wear face masks in courthouseShall (4/16 Order)IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the calculation of any deadlines in Rules
16 5-604, 6-506, 7-506, 8-506, and LR2-308 NMRA for all cases pending or filed on
17 or after the date of this order shall not include any period of time-delay caused by
18 the current public health emergency. But to exclude a period of time from the
19 calculation of deadlines under the terms of this order, a judge must enter specific
20 findings of fact demonstrating that the period of delay was caused by the current
1 public health emergency;
UnclearWill accept things electronically/by fax according to local court rulesJudges now must do everything they can to hold court proceedings remotely (3/23 Order)Executive Order extending notarial acts remotely
37
New York March 15 Memo - Link 1Link 23/22 Sup. Ct Order on Essential Filing 4/6 Announcement Virtual Courts4/13 Virtual Courts11/13 OrderMarch 8 OrderI am pleased to report that our plans to resume a limited number
of civil and criminal jury trials on March 22nd are moving forward. Our
Administrative Judges and court managers are preparing their
courthouses for the safe return of jurors, and we are modestly
increasing courthouse staffing levels to support necessary in-person
administrative functions and increased foot traffic.
3/22/2021 (Limited scale)Open (phased opening)Shall for essential, now also doing non-essential virtually (4/13 Order)Executive order 202.8 -- Tolled until April 19 (seems to include SOL's b/c specifically covers commencement of a civil action) YesYes (Executive Order 3/19), which was extended here New York (3/19/20)Emergency Order temporarily authorizing audio/video technology for notarization
38
North Carolina Court News Page - Link 1March 13 Order - Link 1March 19 Order4/2 Order4/13 Order6/20 Order7/16 Order7/20 Order8/15 Order9/15 Order 10/15 Order11/16 Order12/14 Order1/14 Order2/12 Order 3/12 Order4/9 Order 5/7 Order6/4 Order This order restores to local judicial officials
substantial decision-making authority over when and how to conduct jury trials and
other in-person proceedings
Allowed but under discretion from local officialsPeople can enter courthouse with face coveringAuthorized (4/2)I order that all pleadings, motions, notices, and other documents and papers
that were or are due to be filed in any county of this state on or after 16 March 2020
and before the close of business on 1 June 2020 in civil actions, criminal actions,
estates, and special proceedings shall be deemed to be timely filed if they are filed
before the close of business on 1 June 2020.
I further order that all other acts that were or are due to be done in any county
of this state on or after 16 March 2020 and before the close of business on 1 June 2020
in civil actions, criminal actions, estates, and special proceedings shall be deemed to
be timely done if they are done before the close of business on 1 June 2020.
This order does not apply to documents and papers due to be filed or acts due
to be done in the appellate courts.
UnclearUnclearRecently passed bill allowing remote witness -- see bill here
39
North Dakota March 17 Order - Link 1April 15 Order June 9 Order1/19/22 OrderSCJD returning to remote hearings temporarily 7/1/2020OpenNot addressed4/15 order does NOT grant relief from deadlines NoOrder does not suspend or grant relief from deadlines ND Guidance on Remote Notarization North Dakota HB 1110 (signed into law 03/12/19)Authorizes remote notarization using communications technology
40
Ohio Court News Page - Link 13/20 Guidance to Courts 3/27 Order Tolling Statutes No statewide closure as of 3/23/2020, localities are suspending/postponing thingsLower Court LevelLower Court LevelRestart Ohio Guidance and Ohio Jury Trial Advisory Group Recommendations May be allowed (3/27 Order)Please see 3/27 Order -- all SOL + deadlines tolled until July 30 or expiration of COVID Executive Order (whichever is first). This was also passed via legislation (HB 197)YesUnclearGuidance to courts says try to conduct things remotely if possibleOhio SB 263 (signed into law 12/13/19; effective 9/19/19)Authorizes online notarization via remote presentation.
41
Oklahoma March 16 Order - Link 13/23 Order3/27 Order4/29 Order11/23 OrderThe decision to schedule or proceed or continue or reschedule any jury term, Civil or Criminal jury trial, non-jury trial or any other proceeding rests solely with the judges of the District Court.

7. In the event that there is an objection to the continuance of any civil or criminal jury trial, non-jury trial or other proceeding, the assigned judge shall make a full record including reference to all Joint Emergency Orders, any local directives, and any other facts and circumstances necessary for later appellate review.
8/1/2020UnclearShall (3/27 order)Beginning on May 16, 2020, all rules and procedures, and all deadlines
whether prescribed by statute, rule or order in any civil, juvenile or criminal
case, shall be enforced, including all appellate rules and procedures for the
Supreme Court, the Court of Criminal Appeals, and the Court of Civil
Appeals.
YesUnclearCourt should use remote access if possible for hearings (3/23 Sup Ct Order); e-notary act allows remote depositions: Oklahoma SB 915 (signed into law 5/9/19; effective 1/1/2020)Authorizes remote online notarial acts12 OK Stat 12-426 - does not cover depos
42
Oregon March 16 Order - Link 13/27 Order 5/15 Order11/18 Order2/17 Order 3/11 Order6/28 Order 7/29 Order8/16 Face Mask Order9/7 Social Distancing Order9/16 Vaccine Order11/15 Order A Presiding Judge may authorize scheduling other jury trials to begin on or after
March 1, 2021, provided that, as of the date of the scheduled trial, the Governor has
approved one or more counties in the judicial district to move to a category other than
the Extreme Risk category.
(3) A Presiding Judge may authorize conducting jury trials not described in
subparagraphs 2.b.(1) or 2.b.(2), but only pursuant to paragraph 3 of CJO 20-047.
3/1/2021Open (phased opening)Allow for essential, Presiding judge decides for not essential (3/27 Order)3/27 order is seeking legislative authority to amend deadlines and statutesNoUnclearUnclearORCP 39 (c)(7) and see also HB 4212Remote oath is acceptable
43
Pennyslvania Court News Page - Link 1March 18 Order - Link 2April 1 OrderApril 28 Order 5/27 Order6/21 (2021) OrderStatewide judicial emergency ends June 1. However, there is still a lot of discretion for courts to act as they see fit. See 5/27 order for specificsSuspended until further notice 6/1/2020 (but lower courts have discretion)04/28 OrderAuthorize and encourage (4/1 Order)Filings required between 3/19 and 5/8 "shall be deemed" timely filed if filed by 5/11 or on a later date as permitted by the court -- read Order for info on SOL'sYesDiscovery motions postponed, except to the extnet such matters may be handled through tech (subject to constitutional limitations). Judges instructed to "adapt proceedings" in light of COVID 19, suspended in-person requirement for court reporters Proposed legislation, hasn't passed HB 2370
44
Rhode Island March 17 Order - Link 1April 8 OrderMay 15 Order 6/10 Order 7/20 OrderFace Mask OrderJury and bench trials may resume without restriction. With the consent of all parties and
the Court, bench trials may be conducted remotely.
9/8/2020Open on limited basisEncouraged (4/8 Order) All filing deadlines which would have expired between March 17, 2020
and May 17, 2020 shall be extended to May 29, 2020. All deadlines occurring after May
4
17, 2020 shall not be extended unless upon motion duly made and granted by the
appropriate court and in accordance with the rules of each court.
C. Statutes of limitations: Statutes of limitations are not tolled and shall continue to run.
NoDeadlines extended for court filings (see SOL column) Any rule that may be interpreted to require administering any oath
or affirmation in-person may be relaxed to allow such oaths or affirmations to be administered
remotely by available technologies, including videoconferencing or teleconferencing, provided
such remote administration is not otherwise prohibited by any statutory or constitutional
provision.
See Secretary of State information on remote notarization
45
South Carolina March 18 Order - Link 13/16 Memo to Judges3/26 Supplemental Guidance 4/3 OrderMessage from Court 4/244/22 Order7/30 Order9/14 Order12/4 Order12/16 Order1/6 Order2/26 Order3/4 Order6/15 Order 8/27 OrderSee 6/15 Order regarding latest on jury trials 4/5/2021Open (if plan in place) All must wear masks in courthouseMay 4/3 OrderUnclearUnclearUnclearRemote Administration of Oaths. Where this order authorizes a hearing, trial or other matter to be conducted using remote communication technology, any oath necessary during that hearing, trial or other matter may be administered by the same remote communication technology. While it is preferable that the person administering the oath have both audio and visual communication with the person taking the oath, the oath may be administered if only audio communication is available, provided the person administering the oath can reasonably verify the identity of the person taking the oath. Notaries who are authorized to administer oaths may administer oaths utilizing remote communication technology in the case of depositions. Nothing in this order shall be construed as authorizing remote administration of oaths for any other purpose than those contained in this order.See supreme court order
46
South Dakota March 13 Order - Link 1Court Memo Resource - Link 2Remote Notarization Allowing TechnologyPresiding judges can ask Supreme Court to postpone/extend hearings and trials. Each circuit has implemented protocols. Lower Court LevelLower Court LevelJudges ordered to adapt, modify, suspend court rules to continue proceedings (3/13 Order)UnclearUnclearUnclearSee order South Dakota HB 1272 (signed into law 3/18/19; effective 7/1/19)Authorizes remote notarization via communications technologySouth Dakota Statute Chapter 18-7- does not cover depos
47
Tennessee March 13 Order - Link 1March 25 OrderApril 24 Order Extending Notarization Order5/26 Order11/17 Order 12/22 Order 1/15 order 2/12 Order 8/26 OrderThe suspension of all jury trials is extended through the close of business on
Wednesday, March 31, 2021, subject only to exceptions which may be granted by the Chief
Justice on a case-by-case basis
3/31/2021Open (if you have a plan approved)
04/24 Order for judicial districts to approve reopening plans
Should utilize (3/25 Order)Deadlines set forth in court rules, statutes, ordinances, administrative rules, or
3
otherwise that are set to expire during the period from Friday, March 13, 2020, through
Sunday May 31, 2020, remain extended through Friday, June 5, 2020, pursuant to the
terms of paragraph 7 of the Court’s April 24, 2020 order. The Court anticipates that there
will be no further extensions of these deadlines.
YesCourts should continue to conduct as much business as possible by means other
than in-person court proceedings. Courts are encouraged to continue and even increase
the use of telephone, teleconferencing, email, video conferencing or other means that do
not involve in-person contact. All of these methods should be the preferred option over
in-person court proceedings.
Encourages judges to be avail remotely Tennessee SB 1758 (signed into law 5/15/18; effective 7/1/19)Authorizes online notarization via audio video communicationTennessee Rule of Civil Procedure Rule 72
48
Texas March 13 Order - Link 1March 20 OrderApril 1 Order 4/27 Order5/26 Order6/29 Order8/6 Order10/1 Guidance 9/18 Order11/13 Order1/14 Order3/5 Order5/26 Order 7/19 Order 9/21 Order11/23 Order1/19/22 Order A court may conduct an in-person jury proceeding if:
a. to assist with coordination of local resources and to manage capacity
issues, the court has obtained prior approval, including a prior approved schedule, for the
jury proceeding from the local administrative district judge or presiding judge of the
municipal courts, as applicable;
b. the court has considered on the record any objection or motion related to
proceeding with the jury proceeding at least seven days before the jury proceeding or as
soon as practicable if the objection or motion is made or filed within seven days of the jury
proceeding;
c. the court has established communication protocols to ensure that no court
participants have tested positive for COVID-19 within the previous 10 days, have had
symptoms of COVID-19 within the previous 10 days, or have had recent known exposure
to COVID-19 within the previous 14 days;
d. the court has included with the jury summons information on the
precautions that have been taken to protect the health and safety of prospective jurors and
a COVID-19 questionnaire to be submitted in advance of the jury selection that elicits from
prospective jurors information about their exposure or particular vulnerability to COVID19; and
e. the court has excused or rescheduled prospective jurors who provide
information confirming their COVID-19 infection or exposure, or their particular
vulnerability to COVID-19 and request to be excused or rescheduled.
3/5/2021 (gave permission to conduct in-person trials if certain conditions met)6/1/2020 (meet certain criteria)Court Guidance -- template on their website Allow or require (3/13 Order)Any deadline for the filing or service of any civil case that falls on a day between
March 13, 2020, and August 1, 2020, is extended until September 15, 2020. 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.
YesSee SOL column about deadlines -- otherwise unclear about discoveryEncouraging remote hearings via Zoom (see link) Texas HB 1217 (signed into law 6/1/17; effective 7/1/18)Authorizes online notarization through two-way video and audio conference technology.Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code 132.001 (2013)
49
Utah Court News Page - Link 1March 21 Order - Link 2May 11 OrderJune 26 Order 10/2 Order 12/31 Order6/3 Order8/12 Order9/17 Order11/12 Risk Response Plan11/23 Order12/10 Order(a) District court and justice court judges are not to conduct any criminal jury trials (whether the
defendant is or is not in custody) or civil jury trials during the Red Phase. If a defendant is in
custody on a class B or C misdemeanor offense, the assigned judge must reconsider the
defendant’s custody status and is encouraged to release the defendant subject to appropriate
conditions.
No jury trials in red phaseClosed if in red phaseShall (3/21 Order)Courts shall continue to accept filings, and shall be available to answer telephone calls, emails,
and other communications. Individuals who do not have access to e-filing may file documents by
email in any pending case. If an individual wishes to file a pleading to initiate a case or file a
notice of appeal, the individual should contact the court by telephone to make arrangements for
filing. Lawyers are encouraged to stipulate to extensions of time. Judges are directed to grant
liberally motions for extensions of time. This Order does not extend filing deadlines. Any future
extension of a specific deadline will be made by separate order.
NoCourts shall continue to accept filings Absent exigent circumstances, all hearings shall be conducted on the papers, or through remote
transmission, such as by telephone or video conferencing. If an in-person hearing is necessary
due to exigent circumstances, the court shall conduct the hearing consistent with all applicable
government and public health Orders, the Court’s Pandemic Response Plan, and the Risk
Response Plan. A person who appears at the courthouse in response to a summons or pursuant
to a promise to appear shall be given a new date to appear or provided with instructions on how
their case may be handled through remote transmission, and the court or clerk may address
summary matters. Also see order about remote depositions.
Utah HB 52 (signed into law 3/25/19; effective 11/1/19)Authorizes remote notarizationUtah Code Title 78B Ch 18a (2018) - does not cover depos
50
Vermont March 16 Order - Link 1March 20 Amendments to 3/16 OrderMarch 25 OrderAdmin Order 494/9 Order 5/13 Order5/12/21 OrderJury Trials:
a. Superior courts may schedule and hold individual jury trials in criminal proceedings
and civil proceedings after January 1, 2021, only with the authorization of the Chief
Superior Judge and the Court Administrator. Factors to be considered in authorizing a
proposed jury trial include: the current course of the COVID-19 pandemic; the
current recommendations of public-health experts; whether the unit has adopted a
plan that addresses ventilation and air flow and allows for socially distanced seating
and movement of all participants and jurors through the course of a jury draw and
trial; the availability of staff and other resources to support court proceedings; and the
rights and interests of the litigants.
b. In the interest of justice, the Chief Superior Judge is authorized to transfer a civil or
criminal proceeding to another unit (transferee unit) for purpose of a jury trial. In
exercising this authority, the Chief Superior Judge should consider whether any
building in the unit where the case was filed (or to which it was previously
transferred) (transferring unit) is, or is expected to be, available for jury trials; how
many other cases are trial-ready in the transferring unit, and their relative priority;
Page 2
PROMULGATED ON 3-16-20; AMENDED ON 3-18-20, 3-20-20, 3-24-20, 3-25-20, 4-06-20, 4-09-20, 4-13-20, 4-21-30, 4-30-
20, 5-13-20, 6-19-20, 7-17-20, 7-23-20, 8-20-20, 10-5-10, 11-02-20, 11-24-20, 12-04-20, 12-22-20, 3-8-21, 4-8-21 AND 5-12-21.
how many other cases are trial-ready in the transferee unit, and their relative priority;
and any other factors pertinent to the determination.
1/1/2021OpenMay allow (Admin Order 49)Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, all statutes of
limitations or statutes of repose for commencing a civil action in Vermont that
would otherwise expire during the duration of any state of emergency declared
by the Governor arising from the spread of COVID-19 are tolled until 60 days
after the Governor terminates the state of emergency by declaration.
NoUnclearAllows remote swearing by law for limited time (June 15, 2020) Vermont H 526 (signed into law 5/22/18; effective 7/1/19)Authorizes development of remote notarization rules, please also see VT Emergency Judicial Rules that just passed
51
Virginia March 16 Order - Link 1March 27 Order April 22 OrderMay 6 OrderJune 1 OrderJune 8 OrderJune 22 OrderJuly 8 OrderJuly 29 OrderAugust 7 OrderAugust 20 Order 9/4 Order 9/28 Order 10/19 Order 11/9 Order 12/3 Order 12/18 Order 1/19 Order 2/8 Order 3/2 Order3/15 Order 4/12 Order 5/3 Order6/15 Order 6/29 Order 8/4 Order8/25 Order 9/20 Order10/5 Order 10/25 Order 11/18 Order 12/10 Order12/29 Order1/20 Order This Order shall be in effect from January 6, 2022, through January 26, 2022, unless
amended by future order. Accordingly, the Period of Judicial Emergency now extends from
March 16, 2020, through January 26, 2022. The Declaration of Judicial Emergency may be
extended for additional periods as provided in Va. Code § 17.1-330(E). It is so ORDERED.
5/30/2021 (unless courts have approved plan) Should conduct virtual as much as possible All matters heard pursuant to Order should be conducted electronically (3/27 Order)Except as provided in Paragraph 1 above, beginning on July 20, 2020, for cases in the
district and circuit courts, there shall be no further tolling of statutes of limitation or other caserelated deadlines. Similarly, beginning July 20, 2020, there shall be no further tolling of
deadlines regarding filings made pursuant to Part Five of the Rules of the Supreme Court of
Virginia with the clerk of the circuit court as well as the filing of the petition for appeal in the
Supreme Court under Rule 5:17(a)(1).
YesIn district and circuit courts, the court may, in its discretion, hear any non-emergency
matters, upon agreement of all parties, attorneys and witnesses, by two-way electronic
audio-visual communication system using a secure communication platform such as
Polycom or WebEx, or by telephone. Requests to participate by telephone should be
liberally granted.
See e-notary lawVirginia Law (adopted in 2011)Authorizes electronic notarization via video/audio conference technologyVirginia Code 8.01-4.3 (2005) - does not cover depos
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Washington March 20 Order - Link 1April 13 Order April 29 Order June 18 Order8/18 OrderJury trials are necessary to the open administration of justice in Washington.
Courts may commence new jury trials starting July 6, 2020 in courthouse facilities
or offsite facilities, while observing social distancing and following the most
protective applicable public health guidance in their jurisdiction. Before July 6,
2020, trials already in session where a jury has been sworn and such measures are
in place may proceed or, at the discretion of the trial court or agreement of the
parties, be continued to a later date.
7/6/20207/6/2020Emergency matters must be heard, non-emergency can be heard if appropriate (3/20 Order)UnclearNoThe use of remote technology in jury selection, including use of video for voir dire
in criminal and civil trials, is encouraged to reduce the risk of coronavirus
exposure. Any video or telephonic proceedings must be conducted consistent with
the constitutional rights of the parties and preserve constitutional public access.
Authorization for video-conference proceedings under CrR 3.4(d)(1) and CrR
3.4(d)(1) is expanded to include jury selection, though the requirement that all
participants be able to simultaneously see, hear and speak to one another does not
require that all potential jurors be able to simultaneously see one another.
E-notary law allows for remote swearing, see also 4/2 court order Washington SB 56 (signed into law 4/26/19; effective 10/1/20)Authorizes remote notarization via communication technologyRCW 9A.72.085 (2019) - does not cover depos
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West Virginia March 16 Order - Link 1March 22 Order - Link 24/3 Order 4/22 Order 4/24 Order5/6 Order10/6 Order 6/25 Order In person hearings and proceedings may commence starting May 18, jury trials may commence starting June 29. 10/6 Order -- Large-scale jury orientations or trials requiring large jury pools should not occur until
further order of the Court. Instead, jurors should be called to the courthouse in manageable
numbers where adequate social distancing measures can continue. Jurors must be permitted
to wear self-provided masks. J
6/29/20205/15/2020Resumption of Operations OrderSuspends rules related to remote technology (3/22 Order)Deadlines, SOL/Repose set to expire from 3/23-5/15 extended to 5/18YesSee 4/24 Order EO 11-20 -- Temporarily suspends W. Va. Code Section 39-4-6 requiring the personal appearance of an individual for a notarial act that relates to a statement made in or a signature executed on a record.
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Wisconsin Court News Page - Link 1March 22 Jury Trial Order - Link 2March 22 Remote Hearing Order - Link 33/25 OrderCOVID-19 Task ForceExtension of Rules 5/22IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Interim Rule 20-02 "In the Matter of an Interim Rule re
Suspension of Deadlines for Non-Criminal Jury Trials Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic" shall
remain in effect for each circuit court until that circuit court shall have prepared an operational
plan for the safe resumption of in-person proceedings and jury trials and the plan shall have been
approved by the chief judge of the applicable judicial administrative district, as set forth below.
When a circuit court's operational plan has been approved by the chief judge, as set forth below,
Interim Rule 20-02 shall cease to apply to that circuit court;
Local LevelLocal Level Chief Justice Task Force, see also Final Report of COVID Task Force Required (3/22 Order) Some deadlines extended, some not -- look at court order for specificsUnclearSee order here which allows remote notarization Requires judges be avail for remote proceedings (See 3/22 Sup Ct Order) + remote administration of oath (3/26 Order)Wisconsin Act 125 (effective May 1, 2020)Temporarily authorizing remote notarization, which was extended until further order (5/22 order)Proposed legislation, hasn't passed AB 720/SB 650
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Wyoming Court News Page - Link 1March 18 Order - Link 2March 26 Order April 1 Order May 15 OrderJune 12 OrderJuly 24 Order9/22 Order 10/19 Plan (Supreme Court) 11/5 Plan (Supreme Court)11/13 Order12/10 Order1/6 Order Supreme Court Operating Plan (3/4)Supreme Court Operating Plan (4/8)8/3 OrderNo jury trials should be conducted until further notice.Postponed until further notice 10/5/2020Reopening GuidelinesEncourages/ "does not prohibit" use of technology (4/1 Order) UnclearUnclear4/26 Order encourages e-filing and remote witness signature Encourages telephonic methods for hearings Wyoming Rule of Civil Procedure 30(b)(4) currently provides that parties may stipulate to
have depositions taken by remote means, and W.R.C.P. 30(b)(5) provides that parties may
stipulate that depositions need not be taken “before” a court reporter. While this
Emergency Order is in place, the burden will be on the non-stipulating party to demonstrate
that the failure to stipulate to conducting a deposition in this manner was made in good
faith; and, if a court finds that such failure was not in good faith, it will impose costs and
fees for any motion arising from that failure upon the non-stipulating party. Reasonable
provisions for ensuring the integrity of the process, including identifying the witness and
ensuring that the court reporter and attorneys can see and/or hear the witness shall be made.
Executive Order extended through 10.5 allowing remote notarization Wyo Stat 1-2-103
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