February 23, 2022 – In response to updated guidance from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and in accordance with the recommendation of local public health officials, after a five-week downward trend of local COVID-19 cases the Muskegon County Courts are now able to increase in-person access to court operations. Prior to entering the Muskegon County Hall of Justice everyone is strongly encouraged to monitor themselves for any symptoms of illness, in order to mitigate exposure to COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Though strongly encouraged, masks or face coverings will no longer be required for entry. Due to the duration of jury trials and close proximity of jurors, those reporting for jury duty will be required to wear face coverings in courtrooms and in jury assembly areas. Individual judges will retain the discretion to require those in the courtroom to use masks generally or in specific cases, particularly when involving persons who are at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

1. Court offices (District, Probate, Circuit, Family Court and Friend of the Court) will be open to serve the general public on a ‘walk-in’ basis from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
   
2. Circuit Court Records remains closed to in person filings until further notice. E-mail and the US Postal Service are the methods for filing court documents with Circuit Court Records. The County Clerk’s Vital Records Office is open 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Thursday, and until 3:00 pm on Fridays, for concealed pistol license applications and marriage licenses. For all other services, open 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. Closed for lunch 1:00 pm to 2:00 p.m.
   
3. Many court hearings will continue to be conducted virtually via Zoom. Other court hearings will continue to be held in-person. Instructions on how to appear and how to participate for a court hearing will be provided to all parties along with a notice to appear. If you have an attorney and you are uncertain about whether you should appear in person or to appear remotely, please contact your attorney immediately.
   
4. In-person jury trials have resumed. If you have received a juror summons, please follow the instructions for contacting the jury hotline for more information regarding your term of service.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a great many challenges. It has also proven the resiliency of our citizens, and their institutions of government. We have found, and continue to find, new and innovative ways to meet these challenges – to adapt and to respond in a manner that ensures the public’s health and safety while at the same time preserving access to the justice system. We appreciate your continued patience and understanding.