Two weeks ago we announced that the Judicial Branch had formed three task forces to determine how to gradually resume in-person services starting June 1. Our priority is to implement a limited, phased reopening that will allow greater access to the courts while keeping court personnel and the public safe through social distancing and other precautions.

As Kentucky begins to gradually reopen business, the courts must prepare to do the same. Although in-person services are suspended until May 31, our next priority must be a reopening plan that respects social distancing while allowing greater access to the courts. Please note that this will be a limited, phased approach to ensure the health and safety of our court family and the public.

On March 6, 2020, Governor Beshear entered Executive Order 2020-215 and declared a State of Emergency in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency in the Commonwealth. In light of this measure and to protect the health and safety of court employees, elected officials, and the general public, this Court entered 2020-11 and 2020-17 extending appellate deadlines falling between March 16, 2020 and May 1, 2020 by a total of 30 days. In furtherance of these previous Orders, the Court hereby ORDERS as follows:

The Supreme Court has issued additional guidance on handling court matters during the pandemic. Administrative Order 2020-28, dated April 24, 2020, replaces in its entirety Administrative Order 2020-22, dated April 14, 2020.

On March 6, 2020, Governor Beshear entered Executive Order 2020-215 and declared a State of Emergency in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency in the Commonwealth. In light of this measure and to protect the health and safety of court employees, elected officials, and the general public, and under Section 116 of the Constitution and Supreme Court Rule 1.010, hereby ORDERS the following measures to be implemented through May 31, 2020: