As of August 3, use of a face covering is required by all visitors and staff in Waukesha County facilities, per the State of Wisconsin's July 30 emergency order.
The operational plans of the Circuit Court of Waukesha County outline various procedures and practices for conducting in-person proceedings, including jury trials. Being committed to protecting the health and safety all individuals entering the courthouse, the following are areas of focus:
- Face coverings
- Social distancing
- Sanitation and hygiene
- Public information
Specifics as to each of these areas can be found within the operational plans above under “Orders Impacting Court Proceedings”
Jury Services
Waukesha County Jury Precautions Video
The right to a trial by jury is one of the cornerstones of our democracy, and jury trials necessarily involve a sacrifice from those citizens called upon to serve as jurors. This has always been the case, but it is especially true under the current circumstances.
What are we doing to ensure health and safety during jury assembly, jury selection and the jury trial?
- Face coverings shall be worn, unless a court official specifically determines on the record that it is necessary for a person not to wear a face covering during the person’s testimony in order for the court official or jury to weigh the person’s credibility.
- All persons not from the same household who are permitted in the court building will be required to maintain adequate social distancing of at least 6 feet.
- Plexiglas in lieu of six-foot social distancing to reduce transmission of the COVID-19 virus in courtrooms and other areas.
- Hand sanitizer dispensers will be in all court-related areas of the courthouse.
- CDC flyers outlining appropriate hygiene, social distancing, and public safety will be posted in multiple locations on each floor of the court building.
