Here's a quick snapshot of what defendants need to know with regards to how COVID might affecting their court case

• The courts are requesting that, unless otherwise ordered to do so, defendants appear via Zoom. 
• That said, if you want to appear in person, you are free to do so, but it is advisable to arrive at the courthouse at least 15 minutes before your court time as you will need to go through the COVID screening process before you can be admitted to the courthouse.
  • This screening takes place near the southern security entrance. 
  • In a lot of cases, defendants are being held outside the building until their case is ready to be called, so bring a sweater or jacket; you may be out in the cold for a while.
  • If you exhibit warning signs of being possibly infected with COVID, in most cases you will be issued a new court date, and set home. 
  • All persons entering a courtroom or clerk’s office are required to wear a face-covering and maintain six foot social distancing at all times.
  • ONLY defendants, attorneys, and testifying witnesses are being allowed in the courthouse, so if you were planning on bringing a friend or family member for moral support, be aware that they will have to wait for you outside the courthouse, and cannot join you in the actual courtroom.
• The temporary bail schedule adopted in April 2020 is still in effect. For details, see here. 
• The criminal clerk's office is now only open from 8-10 in the morning.
• As of 1/21/21, the Presiding judge has requested a waiver of the "speedy trial" rights of out-of-custody defendants. It sounds as if there will not be trials for out-of-custody defendants until at least March.

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To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Devina Douglas feel free to call her at (707) 408-3529 or get in touch with her online here. ​

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The Law Office of Devina Douglas
700 College Ave.
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
(P) 707.408.3529
(F) 707.948.6097
Devina@DevinaDouglasLaw.com