Emergency Court Directives and Executive Orders You Should Know About (Week of March 23)

News has been replete with the many measures being taken by the state government and the court system in response to the outbreak of COVID-19.  Here are some that we want to make sure you did not miss:

An announcement (March 22, 2020) that virtual operations begin in NYC Criminal (second phase) and Family Courts, starting March 25 and 25, respectively.

Order from the Governor (#202.8 – March 20, 2020) that tolls the statute of limitations for court actions until April 19; suspends all residential evictions and foreclosures for 90 days; and requires employers to reduce the in-person workforce at any work locations by 100%, with some exceptions for essential businesses and services. Guidance from Empire State Development as to what constitutes an “essential” business or service is here.

Administrative Order (#78/20 – March 22, 2020) from Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks indicating that no papers shall be accepted for filing except in “essential matters” designated in the Order.

Memo of Operations Protocols (March 20, 2020) from the District Executive of the Southern District of New York.

Administrative Order (#75/20 – March 20, 2020) from Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks extending assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) plan orders issued pursuant to section 9.60 of the Mental Hygiene Law (Kendra’s Law)

Administrative Order (#71/20 – March 19, 2020) from Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks discouraging “the prosecution of any pending civil matters including discovery that would require in-person appearances or travel” and encouraging parties to collaborate in necessary postponements for up to 90 days. “Participants in civil litigation will not be subject to penalty if they are unable to meet discovery deadlines.” 

Administrative Order (#73/20 – March 19, 2020) from Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks extending temporary orders of protection.

Order from the Governor (#202.7 – March 19, 2020) stipulating that notarial acts required under state law are authorized to be performed via video technology.