Interpreters User Group
27 April 2020
This note is to provide interpreting services with a general overview of arrangements made by the courts in relation to COVID-19, particularly with respect to cleaning practices and controls on those entering the courts. For more information and the latest updates, visit the Courts Administration Authority website (http://www.courts.sa.gov.au/Information/Pages/Coronavirus-Information.aspx).
Cleaning and hygiene
Additional cleaning at all staffed court sites began on Tuesday, 24 March 2020. The additional cleaning focuses on high-touch surfaces in both public and secure areas, such as lifts, handrails, bathrooms, door handles and hard surfaces in courtrooms.
Signs have been placed at the entrance to all court buildings drawing attention to those classes of persons who are required to isolate themselves by either public health directives or advice. They explain procedures which persons otherwise required to appear in court should follow.
Sanitisers are available to the public at the entrances to court buildings and in courtrooms.
Water is no longer provided in courtrooms. Interpreters should bring their own water container. Plastic cups will be available.
Persons entering the courts
The courts are facilitating court hearings through audio-visual and telephone links, where possible, to minimise the number of persons physically attending court. The public seating capacity in courtrooms and waiting areas have also been reduced to increase social distancing.
Arrangements have been made to facilitate the filing of documents by legal practitioners and self-represented litigants electronically to reduce the foot traffic to Registry counters, which are located in the courts.
In the practice changes of the Supreme Court released on 24 March 2020, legal practitioners have been reminded to inform their clients that the Court is imposing heath distancing requirements strictly and that the number of accompanying persons should be limited in order to facilitate those measures.
The Adelaide Magistrates Court has reduced its lists, which will in turn reduce the number of people attending court. The District Court has staggered listings in Guilty and Not Guilty Arraignment Lists and Second Directions Hearing Callover to minimise the number of people in one courtroom at one time.