The COVID-19 Pandemic: What About My Legal Case?

The World Health Organization has characterized the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) as a pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending that we practice social distancing and place limitations on mass gatherings. Things are changing very rapidly, and these are unprecedented times for the courts.

At Scott H. Palmer, P.C., we have been working on getting the most up-to-date information from Texas courts, and we will try to keep you informed. Please be patient as the information is continually evolving.

For now, here are some general guidelines about what to expect in the upcoming weeks:

• If you are on bond (not in jail), you should not expect to go to court. All appearances have been waived. Some courts are requiring a signature on a pass slip. If that’s the case, you should be getting that via email from our office to sign and send back. Otherwise, we will reset the date and let you know when the next court date is.
• Jail cases can be disposed of if all parties agree to be present for a plea or if the court is set up for a video conference. More and more cases are getting video capabilities.
• All jury trials have been postponed. If you have an upcoming jury trial, it has either already been reset or might be reset based on the changing climate.
• Juvenile detention hearings are by law required to be held. If this applies to you, we will let you know how this is being conducted by the county (most likely via video).
• If you are currently on probation or attending classes for a conditional dismissal, please check with your individual officer or provider to see how they are handling reporting or attendance. You want to make sure to stay on top of your responsibilities. Document your efforts just in case.
• Please take note: If you are on bond, it is still in effect. While probation check-ins may go online or be done by phone, they will resume at some point. Please remain compliant with your conditions to the best you are able so that you are successful.

If you have questions about how adjustments in court processes might affect your case, call us at 469-966-7614. or contact us online. Our team is offering phone and video conferencing consultations to protect the health and safety of you and your family.