The COVID-19 virus has caused numerous disruptions in legal proceedings in West Virginia, including Wood and Wirt Counties. Courts were closed for nearly two months and reopened on May 15, 2020. Changes in court procedures continue to occur. 

What you need to know:  

• Wearing a face mask is required to enter any courthouse in West Virginia. 
• Courtrooms have been adjusted to maintain social distancing. 
• Many hearings are being held via Skype or Zoom. Check with your lawyer to see if you must appear in person or not.

Judge Beane’s Memo regarding these new precautions and procedures can be found on this link. https://wvpdc4.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/COVID-19-SAFETY-PROCEDURES-1.pdf

COVID-19 has also changed Public Defender operations to some extent. 

• You will need to wear a face mask when you come to our office.
• The main entrance to our building on Fourth Street has been closed for safety reasons, and you must now enter through the entrance in the alley between this building and the Wood County Tax Office.
• You should make an appointment before you come to the Public Defender Office to speak to your attorney. See this Notice for more information…. https://wvpdc4.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Client-Appointment-Notice-2.pdf

If you have questions, please call and ask….304-699-3810.