The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of life in Nevada, including the court system. In order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in courthouses and offices throughout the state, the courts have issued their own social distancing guidelines in compliance with the statewide stay-at-home order.
On March 13, 2020, the Clark County District Court suspended and rescheduled all civil and criminal jury trials until at least April 17. Three days later, the Washoe County District Court followed suit.
All nonessential court hearings that are currently scheduled will be conducted via phone or video conferencing, determined based on the papers, or rescheduled. Essential cases may proceed through in-person hearings; however, social distancing practices must be instituted, and alternative means are encouraged.
The following types of cases and hearings are considered essential:
- Criminal arraignments
- In-custody criminal sentencings
- Probation revocation
- Bail motions
- Civil commitment cases
- Civil and domestic violence-related protective/restraining orders
- Juvenile delinquency matters
- Guardianship matters
When it comes to Washoe County, many court hearings that were set to be held between March 16 and May 9 have been rescheduled. If you have a pending hearing that has been rescheduled, call the department in charge of your case or visit https://www.washoecourts.com/Judges.
You could view all criminal proceedings on the 1 So. Sierra lobby computer. Most hearings have been conducted either through phone or the Zoom application.
Whether you have been recently arrested or dealing with a case that has been rescheduled, now is the best time to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer to handle your case. At the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover, we can take advantage of the extra time given to help individuals facing criminal charges in Reno and Washoe County and thoroughly prepare their case and defense on their behalf.
Contact us today for more information about your legal options.