Because of the recent coronavirus outbreak in New York State and around the world, New York courts will be closing for all non-essential legal matters, of which we will discuss more in the following paragraphs. In a memo to court personnel on March 15, Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence Marks said, “Effective 5 p.m. on Monday, March 16, we will be postponing all non-essential functions of the courts until further notice.”
What cases are essential?
To determine which cases are truly essential, judges in NYS will have to “exercise judicial discretion in a manner designed to minimize court appearance and traffic in the courts.” However, you should also note that currently pending criminal and civil trials will continue as planned, though no others will begin until further notice. It is also very important to note that all eviction proceedings and pending eviction orders in New York City’s housing court shall also be suspended indefinitely.
Outside of New York City, special court parts will be established in certain jurisdictions, wherein essential legal matters will be conducted. That being said, inside New York City, courthouses will continue to handle the following cases:
- Criminal Superior Court Matters: Essential applications, as well as felony matters where the defendant is not in custody. In this case, these matters will be adjourned until further notice. However, if the defendant is in custody, his case will either be administratively adjourned or conducted remotely by video in New York City and in jurisdictions outside of the city that have the equipment needed to do so.
- Criminal Lower Court Matters: Arraignments and essential applications as the court may allow, such as applications for orders of protection in incidents of domestic violence. However, arraignments will be conducted via remote video appearances in New York City, and as much as possible throughout the remainder of the state.
For any additional questions, do not hesitate to speak with our experienced Rockland County criminal defense attorney.
Contact our experienced Rockland County firm
Those facing criminal charges in New York need a strong Rockland County defense attorney who knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. Fortunately, our firm is ready to put over 30 years of experience to work for you. Call today or contact The Law Office of Carl Spector online to schedule a free confidential consultation. We are ready to help you go on living life positively, happily, and free from the burdens of a criminal conviction–all you have to do is ask.
