The 62-B District Court in Kentwood today announced that access to courtrooms and other spaces is now limited to no more than 10 persons, including staff, effective immediately. The court is closed to the general public except for essential functions involving health and safety and Constitutional rights through April 3 and will reopen Monday, April 6 at 8 a.m. unless the order is extended.
To confront this unprecedented public health crisis, the Michigan Supreme Court issued Administrative Order 2020-2, which highlights in specific detail essential functions. This order supersedes any previously issued local administrative orders regarding the crisis.
“We take the health and safety of all who utilize the court, each court staff member and the community, seriously and have taken the necessary steps,” said Judge William G. Kelly. “Our team is adjusting as quickly as possible to the crisis, and we appreciate the support of the public as we work to provide more business remotely in the coming days.”
Essential functions include arraignments for in-custody defendants, review and determination of requests for search warrants, among others specified. The new order also provides courts with additional flexibility to conduct business using technology such as video and telephone conferencing.
Visit the Judiciary Response to COVID-19 page or www.kentwood.us or contact the court at 616.698.9310.
