Vt. Memo to the Bar, Nov. 25, 2020

SUPREME COURT OF VERMONT

OFFICE OF THE COURT ADMINISTRATOR

PATRICIA GABEL, ESQ. Mailing Address

State Court Administrator Office of the Court Administrator

patricia.gabel@vermont.gov 109 State Street

Montpelier, VT 05609-0701

Telephone (802) 828-3278

FAX: 802 828-3457

www.vermontjudiciary.org

TO: Members of the Vermont Bar

FROM: Patricia Gabel, Esq., State Court Administrator

RE: Judiciary Response to Increased COVID-19 Cases Across Vermont

DATE: November 25, 2020

As Vermont experiences an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, I want to assure the Bar

that the Judiciary is committed to maintaining the safety of its employees, the bar, and the public.

During these unprecedented times, the Judiciary is continuing its work on behalf of Vermonters

while following all Department of Health guidelines to prevent or quell increased cases in our

courtrooms and communities. When there are cases that impact those who interact with the

Judiciary, the courts follow reporting guidelines, including notifying staff, all other agencies that

occupy the building, and any attorneys or litigants who have attended hearings. Staff then

cooperate fully with contact tracing conducted by the Department of Health. The Judiciary has

existing health and safety protocols, including a mask requirement, social-distancing rules,

plexiglass barriers, daily health surveys of all who enter court facilities, and careful disinfecting

of surfaces.

To provide increased safety, we have also allowed certain matters before our courts to proceed

virtually and delayed certain types of trials that would require many individuals gathering in

person. All decisions are made based on guidance from Department of Health and CDC protocols.

Further information regarding the steps the Judiciary is taking to promote safe operations during

the pandemic is available on the COVID-19 page of the Judiciary’s website at

www.vermontjudiciary.org/COVID19.