A. State
On August 28, 2020, the Connecticut Judicial Branch issued a press release detailing the continued expansion of Court operations within the State. Courthouses in New Haven, Waterford, and Willimantic are open to the public, subject to mask wearing and social distancing. Also, Connecticut Courts will begin to act on defaults and nonsuits in civil (including housing and small claims) and family matters, effective September 20, 2020. Regarding evictions, the Judicial Branch will begin to schedule hearings for matters in which a request for execution has been filed, beginning the week of September 14, 2020.
B. Federal
In the District of Connecticut, individual judges will determine whether nonjury civil or criminal proceedings will be held in the courtroom. All participants in in-court proceedings after June 15 must wear masks, unless otherwise ordered by the judge. Grand jury proceedings may begin after June 15. Those who have experienced COVID-19 symptoms in the last 21 days are prohibited from entering the courthouse, as are those who have tested positive for the coronavirus or have encountered someone who has in the last 21 days.