COVID-19 Judicial Emergency Declaration Update July 1, 2020

Overview

This document is an Amended Administrative Order issued by the Court of Common Pleas in Blair County, Pennsylvania (24th Judicial District). It extends the local judicial emergency through September 7, 2020, and outlines specific safety protocols for reopening the court system in compliance with CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines.

Key Dates

• Order Date: July 1, 2020
• Emergency Extension: Through September 7, 2020
• Jury Selection: Resumes in July 2020
• Criminal and Civil Jury Trials: Resume beginning in August 2020

Court Operations & Safety Protocols

The order authorizes judges to continue specific safety measures through August 31, 2020:

• Technology: Use of BlueJeans, Zoom, telephone, and audio/visual devices is encouraged when reasonably possible.
• Scheduling: Court appearance times should be staggered to reduce contact.
• Gatherings: Meetings and conferences are limited to essential participants only.
• PPE: Masks, face shields, and social distancing barriers are required for all participants and attendees.

Access to Court Facilities

• Filing: The Prothonotary’s office accepts filings via e-filing, regular mail, and in-person filing.
• Domestic Relations: In-person filings are accepted by appointment only. Conferences continue via ACT (Audio/Video Conferencing).
• Public Access: Entry is limited to necessary and authorized individuals. The public and media may observe proceedings, but non-media members must contact the Blair County Court Administrator’s Office at least one business day in advance to arrange attendance.
• Contact: Requests for attendance arrangements can be made by leaving a message at 814-693-3050. Failure to make prior arrangements may result in denied entry.

Signatory

• Elizabeth A. Doyle, P. J. (Presiding Judge)