CNJ authorizes the resumption of in-person activities starting June 15th.

In a gradual and systematic way, the Brazilian Judiciary is authorized to resume in-person activities starting June 15th. This Monday (June 1st), the National Council of Justice published Resolution 322, which also authorizes the resumption of deadlines for physical processes, still suspended due to restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic.

The resolution signed by the president of the Supreme Federal Court and the National Council of Justice (CNJ), Minister Dias Toffoli, states that, from the moment they decide to reopen the courts, the respective presidents will have ten days to issue regulations within their jurisdictions, with the aim of establishing biosafety rules.

Virtual service will be maintained as the preferred method, although courts may stipulate specific days and times for in-person appointments. The resolution also mandates that courts maintain authorization for remote work for judges, staff, interns, and collaborators who are in at-risk groups.

In the first phase of the resumption, hearings involving defendants in custody, juvenile offenders, and those in institutional and family foster care may be held, in addition to jury trials and other urgent matters that cannot be conducted virtually, but only "by judicial decision."

Court orders may also be served by employees who are not in at-risk groups, using personal protective equipment; expert examinations, interviews, and assessments may also be carried out, observing social distancing guidelines.

Custody hearings will resume "as soon as it is verified that they can be held in conjunction with public security agencies," according to the CNJ (National Council of Justice).

Source:Conjur