Trials, motions and other court proceedings have been put to a halt in Stephens County because of COVID-19.
“We will still be able to do hearings, so we’re not canceling everything, but upon a recommendation from the state of Texas, we can’t do anything face to face," 90th Judicial District Judge Stephen Bristow said, according to Breckenridge American.
He added that small gatherings are still allowed, but that events like jury trials will have to wait.
“I intended to have small hearings or hearings with the least [number] of people," he said, according to Breckenridge American. "I didn’t want people to crowd the court, didn’t want big dockets or jury trials, and I received calls from district judges from multiple counties and we’re all doing the same thing.”
Video conferences will be available for emergency situations like removing a child from a home or issuing restraining orders.
The courthouse is also implementing new hours and will be open 9 to 11 a.m. for seniors only and those with serious health conditions.
The Texas Justice Court Training Center also made suggestions for statewide Justice of the Peace executives.
“For a death with no foul play or suicide suspected, you may want to ask if there was a fever, flu-like symptoms, or pneumonia symptoms," the statement said. "If so, this would be the kind of inquest that would be reasonable to do via phone.”
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