TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Kate Prince on Jul 9, 2020

The Tennessee Supreme Court today issued a statewide order requiring all those entering a courthouse for court-related business to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth. That covering should be worn at all times while in the building. “The recent uptick in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths required the Court to reconsider how to best keep the public, court staff, and judiciary safe while keeping courts as open and accessible as possible,” Chief Justice Jeff Bivins said. The requirement is consistent with directives from the Centers for Disease Control, the Tennessee Department of Health and several Tennessee county mayors. Exceptions to the order include those under the age of 12 and those with a bona fide medical reason. Courthouses are also coordinating with local Tennessee Emergency Management Agency offices to have masks available.