Courts thru-out Illinois could open as early as June First, based on guidelines released Wednesday by the Illinois Supreme Court.

The state's highest court issued an order and operational guidelines to help courts statewide resume in-person operations and establish procedures for remote hearings. Since mid March, the state’s courts have been operating under precautionary measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19 while continuing to conduct emergency and essential matters. 

Yesterday's order modifies the Court’s March 17th order so that each circuit may return to hearing all court matters either in-person or remotely according to a schedule adopted for each county by the chief circuit judge. 

Remote hearings, which have proven to be successful nationwide, will play a large role in reducing the numbers of people appearing at courthouses and ensuring the safety of court users, staff and judicial officers, according to the Supreme Court.

Chief circuit judges are authorized to develop plans for resumption of court operations in their respective circuit.  Plans may differ from county to county, but local plans are to continue the use of remote hearings where it's appropriate.