Effective June 15, 2021, up to 50% of judges and state court employees may be present on-site in state court locations. Consistent with public health guidance, the Judiciary will increase on-site presence gradually and with the understanding that we may change direction if COVID-19 trends worsen in the future.
The Judiciary throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been guided by the recommendations of public health authorities, including the New Jersey Department of Health (NJ DOH). Today, and based on positive trends statewide, key public health indicators regarding COVID-19 in New Jersey are encouraging. New cases, hospitalizations, and deaths have been decreasing for several weeks and continue to decline. In all regions of the state, the COVID-19 Activity Level Index (CALI) is moderate. Subject to continued appropriate precautions, these data support an increase in on-site presence of judges and state court employees.
For now, most court proceedings and services will continue to be provided based on a “remote first” model. Further information will be forthcoming as to adjustments to in-person and remote options for court proceedings and services.
Subject to certain limited exceptions, including applications for emergent relief, state court locations at present are not open in general to members of the public who do not have scheduled events or appointments. In light of encouraging COVID-19 levels, public access to both in-person and remote court proceedings may be provided via remote options or by allowing members of the media and public to be physically present in court locations, consistent with social distancing and other precautions. Individuals who seek to observe court proceedings in
person should contact the vicinage in advance and follow any applicable protocols, including through provision of information for contact tracing in the event of a COVID-19 exposure.
Questions about this notice may be directed to the Office of the Administrative Director of the Courts at (609) 376-3000.
/s/ Hon. Glenn A. Grant, J.A.D.
Acting Administrative Director of the Courts
Dated: May 6, 2021