Most COVID-19 Restrictions lifted in Mountain Judicial Circuit Superior Court

Mountain Judicial Circuit Chief Superior Court Judge Russell Smith and Superior Court Judge B. Chan Caudell have issued a Standing Order applicable to the Superior Courts in Habersham, Rabun, and Stephens counties suspending or eliminating most of the COVID Protocols previously in place.  The new order, effective immediately, continues to prohibit persons from entering the courthouse and courtrooms who have been diagnosed with COVID-19, exposed to COVID-19, or are experiencing the symptoms of COVID-19.  Persons entering the courtrooms are encouraged to wear a face-covering if they are not vaccinated.  The wearing of face coverings in the courthouse is voluntary.  Most proceedings will take place in the courtrooms and in-persons with limited provisions for virtual/online hearings when appropriate or necessary.  Care will be taken to avoid overcrowding in the courtrooms, but any specific distancing measures are discontinued.  Additionally, Smith and Caudell say they are pleased to announce that jury trials and grand jury proceedings will return to the courthouses.