The Courthouse is currently closed as part of the anti-coronavirus measures.
PHILIPSBURG--As a result of the 24-hour lockdown imposed by the Government of St. Maarten, the Prosecutor’s Office informs persons not detained, but summoned to appear in court, that their court hearing has been cancelled.
These individuals will all receive a new subpoena to appear before the judge, and, therefore, should not show up at the courthouse, as it will be closed, the Prosecutor’s Office said Monday.
The court hearings for persons in pre-trial detention will proceed remotely. These hearings are necessary due to the legal requirements concerning pre-trial detention.
The hearings of persons in pre-trial detention will only be “pro forma”, which means only a decision on the continuation or suspension of the detention of suspects will be deliberated, not the merits of the case.
The court will contact the lawyers and the Pointe Blanche prison to make further arrangements, the Prosecutor’s Office said.
Pro-forma hearings are scheduled Wednesday morning in the cases of suspects A.C.L. (42) and J.M.H. (28), according to the Court of First Instance.
