L.A. Superior Courts Reopen After One-Day Closure

LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Most Los Angeles Superior Court courthouses reopened today to handle “time-sensitive and essential functions,'' following a one-day systemwide shutdown due to public safety concerns.

Presiding Judge Kevin C. Brazile ordered all courthouses closed Monday following the issuance of a countywide curfew that took effect 6 p.m. Sunday night amid widespread civil unrest.

The following courthouses have been closed for some time because of COVID-19-related service reductions and remained closed Tuesday: Beverly Hills, Bellflower, Catalina, Central Civil West, East Los Angeles, Santa Clarita and Spring Street.

Nearly 80% of the 600 county courtrooms have been closed since Brazile issued a March 17 order to scale back operations to comply with state and county public health directives.

The court plans to reopen its clerk's office operations on June 15, with a revised model that prioritizes access online and by telephone. Appointments will be required to meet in person in order to maintain social distancing.

Hearings are expected to resume gradually beginning June 22, and face masks or coverings will be mandatory for entry into any courthouse.

Photo: Getty Images


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