How does COVID-19 impact my court hearings?

The courts are working very hard to avoid having lots of people in a small place.  Many court hearings are occurring via Zoom and you can log on to the Zoom link for your court appearance.  

When using Zoom, be sure that you are muted and only speak when your case is called.  You can press *67 to mute and unmute yourself.

A limited number of cases are occurring in person.  For in person hearing you will need to wear a facemask in court, observe 6ft social distancing and may be required to take your temperature. If you cannot attend in person because you’re running a fever or have been recently exposed to someone or diagnosed with COVID.  Should that occur, you will need to call our office immediately!!

Show All Answers

1. Is my public defender a “real lawyer”?
2. Since you’re paid by the government, the same as prosecutors, aren’t you just working together?
3. Can I call or drop by the Cowlitz County Office of Public Defense for some quick legal advice?
4. What is an arraignment?
5. What is a pre-trial hearing?
6. What is a trial readiness hearing?
7. What happens in trial?
8. What happens in a sentencing hearing?
9. How does COVID-19 impact my court hearings?
10. How do I discuss my case with my attorney during COVID-19?
11. What is a bench warrant, and what can I do if I have one?
12. What if I have a prior conviction for possession of controlled substance, aka Violation of Uniformed Controlled Substance Act (VUCSA)?
13. Why hasn’t my attorney gotten my case dropped?
14. What if I forgot my court date?
15. How do I get my record vacated/sealed?
16. If I have a problem with my court-appointed lawyer, how do I complain?
17. What can I do to help with my case?