West Virginia Courts to Operate on Reduced Schedule Ahead of Thanksgiving Holiday
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A limited operational schedule for West Virginia’s judicial offices will be in effect today,Nov. 26, following a proclamation by Gov. Patrick Morrisey, according to an administrative order issued by Chief Justice William R. “Bill” Wooton of the West Virginia Supreme Court. The adjusted schedule aims to accommodate the upcoming Thanksgiving and Lincoln’s Day state holidays.
Administrative Order Impacts All Court Levels
The order applies to all judicial offices and employees under the authority of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia. this includes the Intermediate Court of Appeals, as well as magistrate, family court, and circuit court offices throughout the state. The directive ensures a consistent approach to court operations during the holiday period.
Did you know?-West Virginia observes Lincoln’s Day as a state holiday on the last Friday of November, honoring the 16th U.S. President’s birthday.This year, it falls alongside the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
While courts will generally operate on a half-day schedule, circuit judges, family court judges, and magistrates retain the discretion to proceed with already-scheduled, time-sensitive matters. This adaptability is intended to minimize disruption to critical legal proceedings.
Individuals with proceedings scheduled for this afternoon are advised to proactively check the status of their cases. According to the administrative order, those affected should contact the relevant office – circuit judge, circuit clerk, family court, or magistrate staff – to determine if rescheduling is necessary. Those who have not received notification of changes should specifically inquire about the status of their proceedings.
Pro tip:-Before traveling to a court proceeding, always confirm its schedule with the clerk’s office, especially during holidays or inclement weather. Contact details is available on the court’s website.
Extended Holiday Closure
Beyond today’s reduced schedule, all West Virginia courts will remain closed on Thursday and Friday, Nov. 28 and 29, in observance of the Thanksgiving and Lincoln’s Day state holidays. This extended closure provides judicial staff with a longer period for the holiday.
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Reader question:-How do these reduced schedules impact the timeline for resolving legal cases? Share your thoughts on balancing court access with staff well-being.
