In recent weeks, many of our clients have asked for updates regarding local court closures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many other aspects of life, our initial expectations of the pandemic’s restrictions in the courts were short of reality.

As of today, the Court of Common Pleas of Centre County is in its sixth amended administrative order regarding COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. That order is available by clicking here. The order began on December 29, 2020, just before the prior order expired. This order will continue through April 30, 2021.

Under the current order, the Centre County Courthouse and other related facilities have the following restrictions in place:

  • To the extent possible, all hearings and oral arguments are scheduled over Zoom or similar platforms, or they are delayed until further notice.
  • All jury trials are delayed until further notice. We note, though, that our attorneys have successfully completed non-jury trials during this time. Non-jury trials typically include fewer people, who can easily spread out in the larger courtrooms. The judges have been willing to proceed with those matters.
  • Masks and PPE are required at all times in the facilities – even during courtroom proceedings, including witness testimony.
  • Public access to the facilities is restricted. As a public building, individuals are allowed to visit the building for nearly any reason. To ensure that proper social distancing is ensured, members of the public are asked to make appointments before visiting.

These restrictions may sound like a lot, but as noted above, our attorneys and clients have found it easy to adjust to this new world. There are also benefits to having many hearings over Zoom and similar technology. Among others, individuals do not need to travel to and from the court, which can be far simpler when obtaining expert testimony, testimony from witnesses who must travel, and the like.

Unfortunately, the significant downside to the current situation is the continued delays with jury trials. For a short period, the court system tried to proceed with jury trials, but it quickly became apparent that such trials exposed too many people to too much risk. It is for that reason that jury trial matters are again on hold, with a backlog that will take many months to complete.

Over our nearly 130 years in business, Miller, Kistler & Campbell has adapted to innumerable different changes to the court process. We are proud to say that our team has successfully tackled this latest challenge and is happy to continue providing effective representation to our clients during this difficult time. If you have any questions about the local court restrictions, please visit our contact page to reach us, or simply dial (814) 234-1500.