Guests temporarily barred from attending courthouse weddings as COVID-19 cases rise

Beginning Saturday, guests will no longer be permitted to attend weddings at the McHenry County courthouse in light of the area's increased COVID-19 positivity rate.

The Michael J. Sullivan Judicial Center, located at 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, will remain open with safety measures in place as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in McHenry County. Those measures include limiting the number of people attending wedding ceremonies at the courthouse, according to a news release issued Monday morning.

"Due to the increase in positive rates in McHenry County, Chief Judge James Cowlin has ordered that effective Nov. 7, 2020, no guests shall be permitted to attend any wedding ceremony held in the Judicial Center," according to the release.

Exceptions will be made for couples requiring an interpreter.

Before entering the McHenry County courthouse, visitors are encouraged to check their court date and time online at the McHenry County Circuit Clerk of the Court's website and speak with their attorney to determine whether an in-person appearance is necessary, according to the release.

Anyone facing a petty traffic offense may appear for court remotely via Zoom. Virtual court attendees are asked to log into Zoom 30 minutes after the time listed on their citation. Zoom appearances can be accessed with the following link: zoom.us/my.mchenrycourtroom 102.

Both the civil and family divisions are using Zoom and CourtCall to provide remote appearances. Information about remote appearance can be found on the McHenry County Circuit Clerk's website.

Those who need to enter the courthouse are asked to arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before their scheduled court time and leave the building promptly when finished. Only people necessary for the proceeding should attend, according to the release.

Visitors should bring only their keys, photo ID, cash or credit card and court papers into the building. Only cellphones needed for court-related purposes will be allowed in the courthouse, according to the release. People also should avoid wearing metal jewelry items, large belt buckles, steel-toe shoes or other metal items trigger security devices and slow entry into the building.

Anyone entering the courthouse is required to practice social distancing and wear a mask or face covering over their mouth and nose. Anyone experiencing fever, chills or has been exposed to COVID-19 or lives with a family member who has symptoms of COVID-19 should not enter the courthouse, according to the release.

People who cannot attend court for health-related concerns should notify their attorney. If they don't have attorney representation, they should notify the McHenry County Circuit Clerk's Office at 815-334-4190.

"This continues to be an unprecedented time for all of us including the judicial branch of government," according to the release. "However, through the collaborative efforts of many people, departments and agencies, the 22nd Judicial Circuit continues to provide access to justice during this time of crisis. We thank you for your cooperation."