OKC Municipal Court to start phased reopening

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Beginning June 1, the Oklahoma City Municipal Court will start a phased reopening unless public health conditions “significantly deteriorate,” officials said.

“We’ve made changes to our policies and within the building to maximize safety,” said Municipal Court Administrator LaShawn Thompson, in a statement. “We will make special accommodations for anyone with unique needs on a case-by-case basis, so everyone will be confident that we have prioritized their safety when they visit our building.”

Including pay windows, the Municipal Court building will be open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, except on city-observed holidays.

Face coverings are required. Disposable face masks will be provided upon entrance.

Only defendants, parents or responsible guardians of defendants, attorneys and other people required to attend a court proceeding, such as witnesses and jurors, may enter the courtroom.

Staff at an entrance checkpoint will ensure everyone entering the building has an authorized purpose and is screened for a fever.

Check-in and admittance for court sessions will be allowed 30 minutes before the start of the docket.

The only dockets in Phase 1 will be for animal control cases, environmental cases, traffic cases, criminal trials, and jury division arraignments and dispositions. All other cases and hearings will be rescheduled.

Cases will be scheduled with courtroom capacity in mind to allow for safe social distancing inside.

Probation interviews will be conducted by video conference.

The deadline to clear eligible old warrants at a reduced cost using the Penalty Reduction Program has been extended to Dec. 31 because of the pandemic.

Officials caution the public not to visit the court building if feeling sick, over the age of 65 or if having a serious underlying medical condition.

Court personnel will contact people if cases need to be rescheduled. For case updates or to make sure the court has your most recent contact information, call Court Services at 405-297-3898.

Tickets may be paid without a hearing by using the online payment link at okc.gov/court or by calling 405-297-3898 during business hours.

Visit covid19.okc.gov for the latest local COVID-19 news, guidance and city services updates.