On April 1, 2020, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak issued a statewide stay-at-home order, forcing residents to stay home each and every day, and non-essential businesses to close their doors until further notice. Unfortunately, many owners depend on their businesses to support their families, which is why some non-essential businesses have remained open despite the stay-at-home order.

So, what happens if a non-essential business fails to comply with the statewide order? Although Gov. Sisolak didn’t specify how to enforce the order, he saidviolations may lead to criminal and civil penalties.

Furthermore, Gov. Sisolak also said that local law enforcement ultimately determines how the stay-at-home order is enforced. In Washoe County, for example, local police have increased their patrols to check on closed businesses throughout the county. In Clark County, it is a criminal misdemeanor – punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 – if a business owner violates the order.

The first course of action is typically a warning or educating businesses about the benefits of social distancing. Afterward, any subsequent violations or intentional disobedience of the stay-at-home order can lead to criminal penalties.

On April 30, Gov. Sisolak extended the order through May 15. However, he said the first phase of reopening businesses may start on or before that date.

If you are a business owner in Reno or Washoe County facing criminal charges for allegedly continuing the operation of your business, the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover is ready to protect your rights and freedom. We understand how difficult it is to support your family and employees during the COVID-19 outbreak and the last thing you want to deal with is a criminal charge. Attorney Stover has more than two decades of experience, including time spent as a former prosecutor, helping our clients get the best possible outcome in their criminal cases.

For more information about your legal options, contact us today at (775) 502-1575.