ROCKINGHAM — Local court officials have made a few changes due to the current state of emergency because of the coronavirus.
Because adults 65 years old or older and those with underlying health issues are more susceptible to the virus, Resident Superior Court Judge Stephan Futrell and Chief District Court Judge Amanda Wilson issued an order Thursday temporarily releasing them of certain appearances.
Individuals who fall into that category are not required to report for jury duty and can have their service deferred by calling the jury clerk, according to the order.
While they don’t have to show up, they should seek their deferment during their assigned week by email or phone by contacting Annette McNeil at 910-419-7443.
They are also not required to appear in court as witnesses (including law enforcement), plaintiffs or defendants, as long as they give the clerk “timely notice” or have their lawyer report to the presiding judge the day the case is scheduled.
“While this order is in effect, it is not necessary to provide a doctor's note to be excused with prior notice,” according to the order. “Notice provided by parties after the close of court on the day the matter is scheduled will be handled on a case-by-case basis by the presiding judge and a doctor's note may be required.”
Attorneys who meet the criteria also do not have to appear, as long as they give notice to the opposing counsel and judge prior to the court date.
“In emergency situations, reasonable notice should be provided taking into account all of the circumstances then existing,” the order reads.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is also ordered not to permit anyone who is ill or has an elevated temperature to enter the judicial center until further notice and all court employees are ordered to wash their hands frequently.
The order will expire when the state of emergency, issued Tuesday by Gov. Roy Cooper, is rescinded.
