A. State
As per the Supreme Judicial Court’s Fourth Updated Order dated September 17, 2020, Massachusetts state courthouses will remain physically open to the public for limited purposes. However, most matters will continue to be addressed virtually. After October 23, 2020, will begin a phased resumption of jury trials, beginning with Phase I. Depending on the COVID situation within Massachusetts in the coming months, the next phase will be implemented sometime in February 2021.
Additionally, bench trials in civil and criminal matters will continue to be conducted remotely, and new grand juries may be empaneled subject to certain health-minded restrictions.
B. Federal
In the District of Massachusetts, certain in-person, nonjury proceedings were allowed to take place as of July 15. Proceedings may also be conducted remotely. Face masks must be worn to enter the Donohue Federal Building.
The court is prohibiting visitors who recently traveled to China, Italy, Japan, Iran and South Korea from entering any courthouse or probation office in the district. Those who have had close contact with someone who visited those countries — or those who are symptomatic, have tested positive for the virus or have been instructed by a doctor to self-quarantine — are also prohibited