On January 12, 2021, Eighth Judicial District Court Judge Linda Marie Bell and Nevada Supreme Court Chief Justice James W. Hardesty signed an administrative order in the matter related to extending the “pause” in response to COVID-19. See Administrative Order 21-20. For more information, see the four-page PDF file to download:
Administrative Order 21-20 extends several temporary measures currently in place at the Eighth Judicial District Court to February 15, 2021, except as noted below:
- “The essential function of grand jury proceedings will resume on January 12, 2021. All three existing grand juries will resume meeting. The Court will ensure that the grand jury can meet in a space that allows for social distancing.
- Given concerns regarding the backlog of cases and the safety considerations in the Court’s trial plan, jury trials will resume February 1, 2021, with strict observation of the Court’s trial plan to ensure the health and safety of all involved. To the extent possible, criminal trials will be re-set to prioritize cases based on the date on which a defendant in-custody invoked speedy trial rights. Jury trials will be an exception to the requirement of appearance by alternative means.
- In-person bench trials will also resume February 1, 2021 as long as the trial can be conducted with appropriate social distancing of all persons participating in the trial. To the extent any of the bench trial can be conducted by alternative means, that is preferred.
- Investitures of the new judges will be an exception to the prohibition on in-person meetings. The District Court, Supreme Court and Las Vegas Convent ion and Visitor’s Authority have worked closely to ensure social distancing may be accomplished. Investitures must comply with the Governor’s limitation on gathering size.
The District Court’s operative orders related to the pandemic continue Administrative Orders 20-17 and 20-24, as amended by this Order. Notably, all court appearances are to be by alternative means, preferably video, unless the judge determine an extraordinary circumstance requires a personal appearance. Face coverings covering the nose and mouth must be worn by all persons in court facilities at all times while in the workplace except while eating or drinking.
Except where otherwise noted, this Order will be reviewed every 30 days and remain in effect until modified or rescinded by a subsequent order.”