St. Clair County Chief Judge Andrew Gleeson announced Monday that the circuit court will begin limited reopening on March 1.
“Considering the decline in the COVID-19 positivity rates in St. Clair County and the successful implementation of the dissemination of the vaccine, the courts in St. Clair County are reopening on a limited basis on Monday, March 1, 2021,” the press release states.
Court personnel, the judiciary and the general public will still be required to adhere to guidelines put in place by the Centers for Disease Control “in order to ensure the safety of the general public.” Those requirements include wearing masks and social distancing.
According to the administrative order, all criminal jury trials are continued and all civil jury trials are being reset on a case-by-case basis.
Prior to coming to the courthouse, the general public is encouraged to first contact the St. Clair County Circuit Clerk to check the court date and make sure it hasn’t been changed.
Parties should arrive no earlier than 15 minutes prior to a scheduled court time and leave the building promptly when finished. Family and friends who are not necessary to the proceeding should not come to court.
In order to speed entry into the courthouse, no purses, backpacks, bags or electronics are allowed in. Only keys, photo ID, court papers and cash or credit cards are permitted. Parties should also avoid wearing too much metal to speed entry through building security.
Court staff and employees are permitted to remove face coverings in their office or work space when not in contact with others. Additionally, litigants and attorneys may remove face coverings when directed to do so by the presiding judge.
“Judges shall exercise their discretion whether to wear a face covering or mask while conducting court proceedings,” the order states.
Anyone experiencing fever, chills and other COVID-19 symptoms or lives with someone who has symptoms must notify the chief judge, presiding judge or supervisor before coming to the courthouse.
When entering courtrooms, social distancing decals have been placed on the floor. Seating is marked, and germ shields have been installed. Courtrooms also have hand sanitizer present.
Court staff and employees are also encouraged to:
- Practice good cough/sneeze etiquette
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects often
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer when hand washing is not available
- Avoid touching your face and eyes
- Refrain from using other employee’s phones, desks, offices or other work tools and equipment when possible. If necessary, clean and disinfect equipment before and after use