An order signed by Judge William Hickle on July 24, 2020 orders persons in courts in the 25th Judicial Circuit to wear masks because of the Covid-19 coronavirus.

The administrative order 2020-12 states all of the counties in the circuit, which include Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Texas counties, are operating under Phase three, pursuant to the Circuit’s Administrative Order 2020-11.

In-person court proceedings are allowed so long as they are conducted in compliance with social distancing protocols. In-person proceedings shall be limited to attorneys, parties, witnesses, security officers, and others necessary to the proceedings as determined by the judge.

If they wish, court security staff are permitted to screen persons entering the courthouse with a temperature check but Maries County is not doing this at this time.

Social distancing of at least six feet shall be practiced and face masks or coverings shall be required in all courtrooms, jury assembly rooms, judicial offices, clerical offices, court security offices, hallways and other areas in the court facility. The current practice of increased cleaning and disinfection of common areas and the provision of hand sanitizers and wipes shall continue.

This order is effective immediately and shall remain in full force and effect until further court order. It was Cc’ed to Judge John Beger, Judge Kenneth Clayton, Judge Colin Long, Judge Douglas Gaston, Judge Kerry Rowden, Judge Mark Calvert, and Judge Michael Headrick, and to circuit clerks, sheriffs, county commissioners and county clerks of Phelps, Pulaski, Texas and Maries counties, and area attorneys.

In Maries County, masks were available to those who needed them and liquid sanitizer for hands was available as well.