Courts opening June 1 with COVID-19 rules

The Limestone County courts will be back in session beginning June 1, but with some new rules and procedures.

Per the Office of Court Administration, the Texas Supreme Court, and Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, and in conjunction with other County Officials, Judge Patrick H. Simmons, administrative judge of Limestone County, has entered a “Covid-19 Operating Plan for the Courts of Limestone County,” with regard to all hearings conducted on or after June 1 in the Courts of Limestone County. A copy of the plan can be found of the Limestone County webpage, www.co.limestone.tx.us).

Local officials will continue to provide updates to these rules as needed.

Any person attending a court proceeding or appearing in court is required to wear facial covering. Individuals are encouraged to bring cloth face coverings with them, but if an individual does not have a cloth face covering, a disposable face covering will be provided. Screening will be conducted prior to admission into the courtrooms. All court attendants (not from the same household) will be required to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet.

Vulnerable populations will be accommodated by being given the opportunity to appear by teleconference, to submit necessary information in written form or by rescheduling of the inperson hearing until a time after the COVID-19 crisis has diminished.

Measures will be taken to ensure safety in public spaces, including elevators, restrooms and hallways. Maximum capacity of courtrooms will be posted and strictly observed. Cleaning schedules and hygiene measures have been adopted to conform with the order.