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Preble County Court of
Common Pleas Preble County Clerk of Courts |
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THE PREBLE COUNTY COMMON PLEAS COURT’S
RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 EMERGENCY.
Because of Constitutional and statutory obligations, closing the Court is not an option. For example, we must be open to conduct bond hearings when individuals are arrested and in order to hear petitions for civil protection orders.
However, we are continuing most hearings in civil and domestic relations cases through May 15. There will be no jury trials before June 1. As a result, it will not be necessary for Pettit Jurors to be called to Court for the time being and just a few litigants and witnesses in the very limited cases that we cannot continue. And, if it becomes apparent that it is appropriate to extend those dates, we will do so.
The Grand Jury will meet on May 4, but everyone in the courtroom—jurors, prosecutors, and witnesses—will be required to maintain social distancing and wear masks that will be supplied by the Court. Sanitizer and gloves will also be available.
All pre-trial and scheduling conferences set through June 1, 2020, will be conducted by telephone.
Everyone entering the courthouse is subject to a quick medical check at the front door. Everyone coming into a courtroom or court office will be required to wash their hands before entering and will be asked to sit at least six feet away from other people.
Finally, we are acquiring video equipment that will allow us to conduct some hearings remotely.
If you have a case pending in the Court, we would ask that you first contact your attorney with any questions. If you do not have an attorney, you can call the court at (937) 456-8165 or send an email to info@preblecountyohio.net and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Judge Stephen R. Bruns
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