Courts in Winnebago and Boone counties urge use of virtual hearings
From news reports
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — 17th Judicial Circuit Court Chief Judge John Lowry is urging attorneys and court patrons to use online services and virtual court hearings when permitted as a safety precaution amid an increase in coronavirus cases.
Virtual attendance is generally allowed for attorneys and litigants for most court hearings, unless a judge has specifically instructed you to attend in person.
Check with your attorney for direction on whether your presence is needed in person.
Visit the court’s website for more information about participating in virtual court proceedings.
“The Court is carefully monitoring its operations in light of the surge in COVID-19 cases caused by the omicron variant,” Lowry said in a news release. “We have invested in the necessary technology to offer virtual court options in all of our courtrooms, and as warranted, can easily transition to place greater reliance on virtual court hearings in response to this ongoing pandemic. I strongly urge attorneys and litigants to attend court hearings virtually whenever permissible and possible. This supports public health objectives by reducing the potential for COVID-19 case transmission in our community.”
All persons are required to wear a mask or face covering within public areas of all court facilities.
