Chief Justice Issues Order Limiting In-Court Proceedings

Judge Joseph Cardoza in the background with the prosecuting team in the foreground. Photo by Wendy Osher 7.12.16.

Hawaiʻi Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald today issued an order that beginning Tuesday, March 17, and continuing through April 30, with the exception of emergency and time-sensitive matters, in-person appearances for civil, family, and to the extent possible, criminal matters will be limited.

“These significant limitations on our operations are necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Chief Justice Recktenwald said in a press release. 

“Our foremost concern is to protect all individuals who come in contact with the court for any reason.”

The Order significantly reduces the need for in-court appearances and postpones most court proceedings, including all trials.

“Additionally, we have now added a COVID-19 Information Page on the Judiciary’s website,” said Chief Justice Recktenwald.  “We also strongly encourage everyone to get general COVID-19 information from other reliable sources, such as the Department of Health and CDC.”