Today, what one would typically expect at court has been altered by COVID-19. As a result, each courthouse in each circuit has issued administrative orders that control court operations during this pandemic. In most Florida Judicial Circuits, these orders have canceled or postponed all criminal court and civil traffic proceedings. The rules governing jury trials and speedy trials have also been suspended. Courthouses have closed with limited to no public access, and many judges are handling certain matters through virtual appearances. For example, pretrial conferences are either postponed or conducted virtually.
The courts are conducting daily assessments of criminal procedures and protocols based on orders issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During this time, judges are on rotating schedules or individually handling matters considered essential or mission-critical. What does this mean? Essential or mission-critical proceedings are defined as first appearances, bond hearings, juvenile detention hearings, and injunctions for domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, among others. These proceedings do not include civil traffic hearings, criminal arraignments, pretrial conferences, jury trials, or speedy trials.
During this period, it is important to have an attorney assigned to your case—someone who can keep up to date with the constant changes in court procedures and court dates caused by COVID-19. It is equally important to have an attorney who understands both the criminal process and your specific case.
If you have court costs or fines due and have been financially affected by COVID-19, you may contact the Clerk’s Office to learn how they can assist you.
If you are facing criminal charges during this time, call Attorney Brandon Gans today. We would be more than happy to advise you on how we can assist with your criminal case during these challenging times.