Iowa courts detail latest preparations to minimize impact of coronavirus, yet serve public

DES MOINES – Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Christensen signed a supervisory order on Aril 2, 2020, detailing preparations aimed at minimizing coronavirus/COVID-19 impact on the services the judicial branch provides Iowans.

The order is posted on the Iowa Judicial Branch COVID-19 Information and Updates webpage at https://www.iowacourts.gov/iowa-courts/covid-19-information-and-updates/

The following in-person business shall continue to proceed:

• Trials and hearings already in progress;

• Criminal matters that cannot be continued or conducted by videoconference or telephone (pursuant to this order or otherwise); and

• Emergency matters that cannot be conducted by videoconference or telephone

Emergency and essential services encompass the following:

• The protection of vulnerable people, such as the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities;

• Initial appearances, preliminary hearings, bail hearings, and arraignment for criminal defendants;

• Hearings related to quarantine orders and other public-health related matters;

• Protection orders for individuals who fear for their safety; and

• Search warrants and other law enforcement actions.

More information is here.