The Franklin County Court of Common Pleas will be significantly limiting
in-person proceedings through the end of May, according to a new order
issued by the Court’s General Division Judges.
The General Division has also determined the COVID-19 pandemic to be a
“good cause for continuances” of both civil and criminal cases.
Coronavirus Court Changes and Continuances in Ohio
Per the General Division’s
Third General Order, issued on April 3, 2020, the court will be afforded temporary flexibility
to modify schedules, policies, and procedures, including:
Criminal Case Continuances: Civil and Criminal matters scheduled between March 16, 2020 and May 29,
2020 for jury trial or hearing will be continued to a future date.
Remote Technology: Videoconferencing, teleconferencing, and related technologies are authorized
for all actions and proceedings.
In-Custody Criminal Pleas: From May 4, 2020 through May 29, 2020, certain in-custody criminal pleas,
sentencings, and revocation hearings may be held utilizing the following schedule:
- Mondays: Courtrooms 4a, 5a, 6a, 7a
- Tuesdays: Courtrooms 4b, 5b. 6b, 7b
- Wednesdays: Courtrooms 3e, 4e, 5e, 6e, 7e
- Thursdays: Courtrooms 4f, 5f, 6f, 7f
Scheduled proceedings must be agreed upon by all attorneys and the assigned
judge, and will adhere to social distancing directives and a 10-person
maximum occupancy. Family members may participate via teleconference,
or may submit statements in writing through an attorney in court.
Duty Magistrate Hearings: All civil Duty Magistrate hearings (garnishment, forcible entry and detainer,
civil forfeiture hearings, etc.) scheduled between March 23, 2020 and
May 29, 2020 will be continued.
Ex parte protection order hearings will be held.
Hours of Operation: General Division hours of operation will be 8:00am – 3:00pm through May 29.
Sheriff’s Sales: Scheduled Sheriff’s sales will be canceled and orders of sale will
be returned without execution. All other orders of sale, and all current
and future writes for possession, will be stayed until May 29, or until
further court order.
For a free legal consultation, call 614-884-1100
Koffel Brininger Nesbitt: Business As Usual
While KBN is complying with social distancing policies and has closed our
physical office, our entire team of attorneys and support staff are still
working, and will remain available 7 days a week to new and current clients.
All new clients will also be offered a reduced legal fee until May 1,
2020 during this difficult time.
For more information about the impact of COVID-19 on Columbus courts, or
to discuss a potential case, contact us.
Call or text 614-884-1100 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
