Nonessential court hearing to be scheduled after June 1
Hopkins County Courthouse Annex opened to the public this week, according to an announcement by Hopkins County Justice of the Peace Office Pct. 2.
"We are happy to resume normal functions of our office today [Wednesday] with the re-opening of the Courthouse Annex,” said Hopkins County Justice of the Peace Judge Brad Cummings.
The offices began taking walk-ins to the JPs’ offices Wednesday, under social distancing and personal protective equipment restrictions.
"Specifically speaking for the Justice Courts…the courts will not schedule any non-essential court hearings until after June 1,” said Hopkins County Justice of the Peace Judge BJ Teer. “The court will accept filings of cases, but cases will not be scheduled and the constables will not serve any papers that pertain to nonessential hearings until after June 1.”
This is in accordance with the Texas Office of Court Administration’s current operation guidance for court proceedings (txcourts.net) during COVID-19 outlined by the Texas Supreme Court. The June 1 date is tentative, said Judge Teer. The court is waiting further instruction from the Texas Supreme Court and Office of Court Administration.
“Although the building is open, we encourage the use of personal protective equipment and the mindfulness of others. If anyone has had any recent signs or symptoms of COVID-19 or any illness, we ask that you please refrain from coming into the Courthouse Annex,” said Judge Cummings. “For those who wish to remain in your vehicle, you may still call the office with what you are needing, and someone will come out to assist you."
For more information, call 903-438-4036 or visit hopkinscountytx.org