In a message from 8^th Circuit Court Judge Kevin Walden on Wednesday, May 27, Ray and Carroll county courtrooms will begin operating Phase II of COVID-19 restrictions on May 30.
The number of persons allowed in court will be limited to 25 persons or less, this includes court personnel and supporting staff.
According to the release, strict social distancing guidelines will be observed. Anyone entering the Court premises will be required to use provided hand sanitizer as well as wear appropriate face masks or coverings. For in-person regularly scheduled proceedings, only attorneys, parties, witnesses, victims and court personnel and supporting staff will be allowed in the courtroom.
Individuals who are at high-risk of being infected by COVID-19 are still not allowed to take part in proceedings in person. These individuals may participate remotely by phone or video conference. Persons that have been denied access to Court premises and need remote access can contact the Circuit Clerk’s Office in the county in which the case is pending. In Carroll County, that number is 660-542-1466 and for Ray County call, 816-776-3377.