WARREN, April 22 – Trumbull County Probate Court has received a Remote Technology Grant from the Supreme Court of Ohio. Judge James A. Fredericka announced the $11,000 grant today.
The grant will allow Trumbull County Probate Court to conduct remote video and audio hearings during the COVID-19 health emergency, and provide future access for parties who cannot be physically present for hearings.
Fredericka said his court’s grant was approved quickly – a few days after he submitted an application. He credited the Ohio Supreme Court justices and Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor for making the special grant available.
Other local courts recently receiving grants include Trumbull County Family Court, Mahoning County Probate Court, Niles Municipal Court and Struthers Municipal Court.
The Ohio Supreme Court announced the special, limited grant in March. Funds will pay for video and audio conferencing equipment to facilitate remote-access hearings. The deadline for applications is April 30. Grants will be awarded until funds are depleted.
Mahoning County Probate Court also received a grant for just under $12,000, which paid for computer equipment, software and a related subscription service. On April 10, Judge Robert N. Rusu Jr. presided during the court’s first remote hearing for an adoption.
Rusu said remote hearings will allow parties to participate in future legal proceedings, even if they’re located in another state. Remote hearings will be governed by the same laws and procedures found in regular, in-person courtroom appearances.
Judge Robert N. Rusu Jr. sitting on the bench and on the screen is an attorney involved in the proceeding and other necessary parties. (Mahoning County Probate Court)© 2020 Metro Monthly. All rights reserved.
