On August 6, 2020, Chief Judge Maureen A. Tighe issued General Order 20-05, In Re: Procedures for Phased Reopening During COVID-19 Public Emergency in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and to clarify the operations of the United States Bankruptcy Court in light of the United States District Court General Order 20-09, entered on August 6, 2020, which closed Courthouses in the Central District of California to the public, with limited exceptions. 

Although the District Court is closed, limited access will be allowed for essential bankruptcy functions. In light of the increasing economic difficulties facing many during this pandemic, Intake areas of the Bankruptcy Court will continue to be open to accept in-person filings. Individual judges assigned to cases may hold matters in person in the courtroom or continue to hear matters remotely through telephonic or video service. Through December 31, 2020, remote access to all non-evidentiary hearings will be permitted, even when in person hearings are held. The requirement to appear in person or remotely for evidentiary hearings and trials will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the assigned judge. Specific concerns should be brought to the attention of the assigned judge.

All previously issued guidance regarding face coverings in Court facilities, self-represented filings, mediations, judges’ or courtesy copies, signatures, and the Court’s phased reopening plans remain in place. Individual courthouses may be closed should suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 or local, state and federal guidance change without prior notice, at the discretion of the Chief Judge, in accordance with the Court’s ongoing Continuation of Operations Plan. 

For further information, please visit the Court’s website at http://www.cacb.uscourts.gov

KATHLEEN J. CAMPBELL
CLERK OF COURT