District of Delaware Issues Standing Orders for Court Procedures During COVID-19 Outbreak

March 19, 2020

Publication| Intellectual Property

In light of the exigent circumstances created by COVID-19, the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware has issued standing orders regarding Court operations and access. Key points of the orders include:

  • The District of Delaware will remain open.
  • All case deadlines set by Federal or Local Rule or Court Order remain in effect, although judicial officers may make reasonable adjustments in light of travel, safety, health, and public welfare concerns.
  • Jury selections and jury trials scheduled to begin before April 30, 2020, are continued until further notice.
  • Judicial officers may continue to hold hearings, conferences, and bench trials at their discretion, but are encouraged to conduct proceedings by use of video-conference or telephonic means when practicable.
  • Persons who have been diagnosed with or exposed to COVID-19, who have been (or reside with someone who has been) ordered or advised to self-quarantine, who have traveled to areas suffering from an outbreak of COVID-19, or who are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness may not enter courthouses or any Court location or offices within the District. Such persons should contact their counsel or the appropriate official for further guidance.

Please see the orders for further details. The Standing Order Regarding Court Operations Under the Exigent Circumstances Created by COVID-19 is available here. The Standing Order Regarding Courthouse Access During the COVID-19 Outbreak is available here.

Richards, Layton & Finger’s Litigation and IP Groups are able to handle all existing and new matters remotely going forward. If you have any questions about these orders or the District of Delaware generally, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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