Judicial Emergency issued, halting all civil and criminal matters in Georgia Courts

Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Harold Melton has issued a Declaration of Judicial Emergency effective until April 13.

The Declaration effectively halts the hearing of all civil and criminal matters expect specified essential functions Georgia.

According to Stephens County Clerk of Court Tim Quick, the Declaration impacts the entire Mountain Judicial Circuit Court—including Stephens, Rabun, and Habersham Counties.

Quick says any jury trials have been continued indefinitely, and no jurors or grand jurors shall report, and no jury trials shall be held until the Declaration has been lifted.

The only exception to the Judicial Emergency include: where an immediate liberty or safety concern is present requiring the attention of the court as soon as the court is available; criminal court search warrants, arrest warrants, initial appearances, and bond reviews; domestic abuse temporary protective orders and restraining orders; juvenile court delinquency detention hearings and emergency removal matters; and mental health commitment hearings.

Quick adds that the Stephens County Courthouse will continue to operate business as usual, only without court.

Parties or attorneys in any non-emergency matters should contact the chamber of the judge assigned to their case if they have any questions and/or need to ensure their compliance with this order.

The Judicial Emergency Order was issued following Georgia Governor Brian Kemp’s declaration that a Public Health State of Emergency existed in Georgia due to the spread of the Coronavirus.

For questions regarding the Judicial Emergency contact Quick by calling 706-886-3598.