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Various measures have been enacted in response to the novel coronavirus, including those ordering residents to stay at home. This has required society, including courts, to adjust how certain processes are handled.
If you or a loved one is currently facing criminal charges, you likely have questions and concerns about how the coronavirus will affect your case. Will my upcoming court date be canceled? If so, what happens next? Will my loved one get out of jail early? The purpose of this blog is to answer some of these questions.
What Measures Have Ohio Courts Taken?
Recently, the Ohio Supreme Court announced guidelines designed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus throughout our communities. Overall, these directives serve to limit in-person appearances at court and release non-violent offenders from jail.
For those concerned about an incarcerated loved one’s health and well-being, this likely comes as good news. Yet, not every offender will get an early release or personal recognizance bond. Courts will still decide on a case-by-case basis who will be released from jail. During this uncertain time, it is vital to secure the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney familiar with the courts and such processes.
What Will Happen with My Upcoming Scheduled Hearing?
Changes are being made daily as the courts rush to adapt to the constantly changing conditions of the pandemic. Every court is proceeding differently. Most courts have resorted to the postponement of pre-trial and motion hearings. Additionally, in an effort to reduce person-to-person contact, many proceedings are being held by teleconference.
If you or your loved one has an upcoming court date, you must contact the court to confirm the hearing’s status. If your hearing is not canceled and you fail to appear in person or call over the phone, you’ll still be subject to the normal rules. This means that you may face a warrant for your arrest.
If you have questions about a postponed court date or would like to have the best chance of obtaining an early release for your loved one, please do not hesitate to contact our attorneys at HMW Law. We can be reached by phone at 216-369-1352 or online.
