FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Supreme Court of Kentucky will resume in-person court services beginning June 1, following the formation of three task forces to ensure a safe reopening.
“Our priority is to implement a limited, phased reopening that will allow greater access to the courts while keeping court personnel and the public safe through social distancing and other precautions,” Kentucky Chief Justice John Minton Jr. said in an email May 15 to justices, judges, circuit court clerks and court personnel in the judicial branch.
The reopening of Kentucky’s courts will follow certain procedures meant to promote public health and safety. The primary guidelines are:
- Courts can resume civil and criminal matters.
- Hearings should be done remotely unless the judge deems an in-person hearing necessary.
- For in-person hearings, some safety measures must be observed, such as limiting courtroom capacity, wearing masks, social distancing and frequent disinfecting.
- Only those with a scheduled in-person hearing and individuals filing emergency protective orders, interpersonal protective orders and emergency custody orders may enter court facilities.
- All officials, employees and members of the public must wear a mask.
- Purses or enclosed bags are not allowed in court facilities unless carrying medically necessary items.
- Telework is encouraged for all employees when possible.
- Staffing will be reduced to 50% unless there is an exception by the Department of Human Resources.
The Supreme Court also plans to provide guidance on driver’s license services and other court matters soon.
More information on court updates can be found on the COVID-19 and the Courts webpage.