Bucks County Family Court Set to Resume on June 1, 2020
In Bucks County, the judicial emergency declared by President Judge Bateman that began on March 17, 2020 has served to close all court business with the exception of emergency matters. In Family Court, “emergency matters” that have warranted in-person hearings have primarily been limited to Ex Parte Protection from Abuse hearings (i.e. an individual applying for a Temporary Protection from Abuse Order in the absence of the opposing party). Additionally, during the judicial emergency the court has been holding support and custody conferences and hearings by telephone. That is all set to change soon.
On June 1, 2020 the judicial emergency in Bucks County is expected to end. President Judge Bateman, working hand-in-hand with Court Administration and the Sheriff, is already making plans to resume normal court activity, with certain types of proceedings being phased in over time.
On May 13, 2020, President Judge Bateman issued this ORDER that outlines the return to normal business hours of operations as of Monday, June 1, 2020 for the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas, Magisterial District Courts and court filing offices, measures to address the safety issues arising from the pandemic, and the entry protocol for court visitors and employees. That Order was accompanied by diagrams that further explain access to the Bucks County Justice Center as follows:
Ariel Plan
Justice Center Lobby
It is anticipated that the Bucks County Family Court will experience a back log of equitable distribution, support and custody cases when the court resumes regular activity. Those matters are already in the process of being scheduled in June and the following months. As for Protection from Abuse proceedings, on June 3, 2020 the Court plans to devote significant judicial resources to address the majority of cases that were delayed due to the judicial emergency court closure. Cases that are not heard on that date will most likely be addressed on June 10, 2020. Court notices for those matters are already being mailed to litigants.
As the court resumes regular activity and hearings are scheduled, you are welcome to contact our firm if you need experienced legal assistance with your family law matter.
This article is not legal advice and is provided for informational purposes only. Actual legal advice can only be provided after consultation by an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
