Yesterday, July 7, 2020, the Supreme Judicial Court issued a new order regarding public access to courthouses and other court facilities, which goes into effect on July 13 when the courts physically reopen for limited purposes. Yesterday’s order provides guidance to persons conducting business within court facilities and establishes requirements for entering and remaining in them. The order does not apply to court personnel, who will be required to comply with protocols established by the trial or relevant appellate court.
Also on July 7, the SJC issued a supplemental order clarifying the scope of prior orders concerning virtual proceedings. This order clarifies that the Board of Bar Examiners, the Board of Bar Overseers, the Clients’ Security Board and the Commission on Judicial Conduct may also elect to conduct proceedings virtually.