DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa state courts are resuming face-to-face services Monday.
A new scheduling process calls for longer breaks between court proceedings and fewer people will be allowed in courtrooms to ensure social distancing.
All participants in trials will be seated at least six feet apart, and anyone who speaks, including a judge,will be required to wear a face shield enabling a full view of the face.
Witnesses may testify by video streaming from a secure location outside the courtroom with court approval. Court exhibits will lo longer be passed from hand to hand.
Trials may be continued if any participant experiences COVID-19 symptoms. Participants testing positive will be excused immediately, sent home, and asked to seek medical care.
Parties in judicial proceedings are encouraged to use teleconferencing or videoconferencing whenever possible including during informal family law procedures.
There will be no Jury trials until September 14.
“It is so very important that Iowans feel comfortable returning to their courthouses for essential court services that must be done face-to-face,” said Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen.” We are unwavering in our commitment to provide fair and impartial justice to those who enter our courtrooms and to provide outstanding service to everyone while mitigating the risk of COVID-19.