Extension of Judicial Emergency

Many have been anxiously awaiting the scheduling of cases in the wake of the Judicial Emergency Orders entered by the Supreme Court of Georgia. As you may know, the Supreme Court entered its first order on March 14, 2020 essentially halting all business of the courts except the most essential, emergency issues. Then, on April 6, 2020, the Court extended the emergency as Georgia was still in a “state” with the number of coronavirus cases. Since that time, the Court and the lower courts around the state have diligently been working on how to get our court system back up and running while balancing constitutional rights with health and safety. While we have been catapulted into the realm of WebEx, Zoom, Team meetings and the like, there is still little replacement for the, what is now old-fashioned, in-person hearing. Understanding this the Court extended the emergency a second time on May 11, 2020 and that was set to expire on Friday, June 12, 2020. But then on June 12th, the Court extended the order a third time, but this time with a plan for reinstating deadlines and hearings. You can read all the orders by going to the Georgia Supreme Court’s website and clicking on the individual orders. The site is www.gasupreme.us.

Jury trials are still on hold. It’s a difficult thing to socially distance and be 12 people in a “box” together. Same thing with grand juries. But we are beginning to have hearings and it is mandatory that you wear a mask. Please make sure if you are a litigant or witness to find the mask you like or one will be provided. Cases are being heard as fast as can be scheduled but your time in front of a judge is seriously curbed. You may find that mediation may be a positive step toward partial or full settlement to avoid the long waits for hearing dates. Attending hearings and other court related matters virtually is also possible. Inquire about that if you feel you are at risk and do not want to be needlessly exposed.

Here at Palmour Law Firm, we are trying to get our clients’ needs met as efficiently, effectively and conclusively as possible. If you don’t want an in-person meeting, feel free to inquire about a Zoom meeting. It’s free, quick and saves time and gas. In-person meetings are still available too. While we are still on hold, to some extent, please be patient and let us know how we can help you.