COVID-19 Emergency Order No 1

Cowlitz County Courts (District, Superior Court, and County Clerk) understands many people are concerned about the COVID-19 virus. We are working to make good decisions that protect the public and afford access to the court.We will continue to follow guidance from the Cowlitz County Health Department to help protect people's health.

Court functions at the County Hall of Justice, Youth Services Center, Jail, and St. John Hospital will be open during normal business hours.However, the following changes to court operations are implemented effective March 17, 2020:

All jury trials (criminal and civil) will be suspended through May 4, 2020, except those that may already be in progress.

All jurors with current notices to report for jury duty prior to May 4, 2020 are excused.

All other changes to the Cowlitz County Superior Court Schedule are attached via the Emergency Order no. 1.

All other changes to the Cowlitz County District Court Schedule are attached via Emergency Administrative Order no. 2020-1.

Any changes to court hours or limiting of proceedings will be provided in future press releases. These press releases can be found on the Court websites (see below) and distributed to local media.

Employees and court participants should follow the recommendations from Cowlitz County Health Department offices while at court facilities:

Increase handwashing and use of alcohol-based sanitizer

Respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette – cover a cough or a sneeze

Keep distance from others (more than six feet, if possible)

Frequently clean and disinfect surfaces

Remain home during a respiratory illness

If you are currently ill, we encourage you to avoid coming to court facilities.If you are a party to a case, we would encourage you to work with your attorney to get your hearing rescheduled or appear via telephone. If you are not represented by an attorney, we would encourage you to contact the Cowlitz County Clerk's office at 360-577-3016 to reschedule your hearing or you may appear via telephone.

A Washington call center can answer questions about the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), how it spreads and what to do if you have symptoms.Call 1-800-525-0127 and press #.

For Additional information Contact:

Chad Connors at 360-577-3085 or

connorsc@co.cowlitz.wa.us

Court Websites:

Superior Court:http://www.cowlitzsuperiorcourt.us/

Superior Court Clerk:http://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/158/Clerk-of-Superior-Court

District Court:http://www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/186/District-Court