In response to a major network outage affecting Washington’s court system, the Washington State Supreme Court issued an emergency order, Order No. 25700-B-720, to support local courts’ case processing. Due to unauthorized activity on the Washington Courts network, the Judicial Information Systems, Washington Courts website, and all affiliated databases have been rendered temporarily unavailable. This outage has disrupted court operations statewide, including access to critical judicial information and filing systems.
To address the challenges posed by this network outage, the emergency order authorizes local courts across Washington State to modify specific court rules. The Washington State Supreme Court emphasized the need for flexibility to ensure the continued administration of justice.
Key Provisions in the Emergency Order
- Extended Civil and Criminal Filing Deadlines
The Supreme Court allows for the extension or modification of civil and criminal filing deadlines if the system outage hinders case processing. This flexibility includes time extensions for trial, filing deadlines, and decision deadlines, ensuring that cases can still progress despite technical challenges. - Extended Arraignment Timelines
For out-of-custody cases, local courts may extend arraignment dates if the unavailability of judicial information impacts case processing. This extended arraignment date will serve as the “initial commencement date” for trial timelines under relevant criminal court rules. - Suspension of Database-Dependent Requirements
Certain statutes and rules require real-time database access. If no alternative sources are available for this information during proceedings, the requirement may be suspended by local court order, preserving the integrity of court processes even during the outage.
Emergency Order Duration and Restoration Timeline
The emergency order issued by the Washington State Supreme Court will remain in effect until two days after the judicial systems and databases are restored. This timeline ensures that local courts retain flexibility in case processing without prolonged disruptions.
This Washington Supreme Court emergency order underscores the need for responsive solutions in the face of unexpected technical challenges, allowing Washington’s legal system to remain functional until system restoration.
Additional Resources
For more information on related topics, explore these articles:
- Washington Court System Outage: Impact and Emergency Measures
An overview of the recent network outage affecting Washington’s court system and the emergency order issued by the Supreme Court to address case processing delays. - Navigating Kitsap County District Court ePortal: A Guide for Attorneys and Self-Represented Litigants
This guide helps attorneys and self-represented litigants understand how to use the Kitsap County District Court ePortal for efficient case management and filing. - RCW 29A.84.320: Filing False Candidacy Information
An in-depth look at the legal consequences of filing false information in candidacy documents under Washington State law, as outlined in RCW 29A.84.320. - I-90 at Snoqualmie Pass Reopens After Closing 1-6-2024: Navigating Legal Implications of Weather-InducedRoad Closures
A discussion of the legal implications for travelers affected by weather-related road closures on I-90, including potential negligence claims and safety advisories. - Winter Driving Tragedy on I-90 Near Cle Elum: A Critical Road Safety Alert on December 1, 2023
A report on a recent winter driving accident near Cle Elum, highlighting road safety concerns and legal considerations during extreme weather events.
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