UPDATE 3/25
Click to read the latest notice from the Supreme Court of Florida - COVID-19 EMERGENCY MEASURES IN THE FLORIDA STATE COURTS
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Due to COVID-19 concerns, the state of Florida is now in a state of emergency. As a result, courts throughout the state will be closed until at least April 6, 2020. Until that time, anyone who suspects themselves of having Coronavirus symptoms is prohibited from entering the courts. Those with upcoming court dates are likely to have them postponed. To learn more, defendants are urged to contact a Daytona Beach criminal defense attorney for more information.
Those Awaiting Court Proceedings
There will be no transportation for jail inmates to any court facility in the Seventh Judicial Circuit. As a result, this means jail sentences are tolled (paused) until later rescheduling. Whenever possible, all first appearances and bond hearings will take place by electronic means.
In cases involving juvenile shelter, juvenile detention, family law, and protective orders, there will be in-person proceedings available. However, courts will still record proceedings digitally to minimize contact as much as possible.
Mission Critical Legal Issues
While courts will be closed to less demanding legal matters, there are many people whose court dates will still be honored.
These include:
- First appearances and bond hearings
- Juvenile detention and juvenile shelter hearings
- Domestic violence and protective order hearings
- Family law cases where child safety is threatened
- Appointment of guardians
- Do Not Resuscitate orders
- Warrant requests
- Chemical tests
- Vaccinations
- Curfew orders
If You Feel Sick, Speak to Your Lawyer
Public safety is the highest priority right now. If you are not sure you are free of all COVID-19 symptoms, do not risk transmitting disease in order to go to court. A Daytona Beach criminal defense attorney can help you determine the proper next steps for your situation. To learn more, call Buckmaster & Ellzey at (888) 785-6548 or by contacting our firm online.