Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases around Vermilion County, all jury trials at the Danville courthouse have been suspended through the end of January.
Judge Tom O’Shaughnessy says all other court proceedings will continue, with safety measures being taken to protect everyone who enters the courthouse. Visitors will be restricted to only those essential for court proceedings and operations, and everyone is required to wear face masks. In addition, high volume calls are being limited to no more than 20 cases per hour.
“This is a step taken out of caution,” O’Shaughnessy says. “We have been very successful in minimizing the spread of the virus in the Courthouse and related facilities, but we know that the situation in the community is changing. We must all be mindful of the risk. We aren’t operating as we did a year ago, but we won’t be shut down to the degree we were in the Spring. The continued good work and cooperation of attorneys, courthouse staff, and the public have gotten us through this so far, and we are optimistic and prayerful that the end is in sight.”
O’Shaughnessy asks that visitors arrive at least 10 minutes before their hearings are set to begin and to not come to the courthouse if they feel sick. Courtroom seating has been marked, and all non-e-filings must be done at the circuit clerk’s lobby windows. He also says people should avoid touching railings and other high-touch areas.
