LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Kentucky’s judicial branch will be headed back in session but with limited in-person services.
Officials released their reopening plan on May 15 and say it will be limited and phased, allowing more access to the courts while keeping court personnel and the public safe through social distancing.
Beginning June 1, courts can resume hearing all civil and criminal matters.
The plan also says all hearings should be conducted remotely, unless the judge determines an in-person hearing is necessary. If not, safety precautions must be met including limited courtroom capacity, social distancing, facial coverings and frequent disinfecting of public spaces.
Here are other directives:
- Entrance to court facilities is limited to individuals with a scheduled in-person hearing and those filing emergency protective orders, interpersonal protective orders and emergency custody orders.
- All Kentucky Court of Justice officials and employees and all members of the public entering a court facility must wear a facial covering.
- Members of the public are prohibited from bringing purses or similarly enclosed bags into court facilities, unless items in the bags are medically necessary.
- Telework will be encouraged for any employee who is able to do so.
- Staffing will be limited to 50%, unless an exception is granted by the Department of Human Resources.
Officials also say the Kentucky Supreme Court will issue specific guidance soon on driver’s license services and other court matters like evictions and jury service.
For more on the courts, visit the COVID-19 and the Courts webpage.
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