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In response to a surge in COVID-19 cases in New York City, the state's courts have begun implementing virtual hearings for civil cases, in an effort to prioritize the health and safety of both court personnel and the public.The decision to move towards virtual hearings was announced on April 14, 2026, by Chief Judge Janet DiFiore, who emphasized the importance of ensuring access to justice while also mitigating the spread of the virus. DiFiore stated that the move to virtual hearings was necessary to protect the health and well-being of all individuals involved in civil cases.Under the new guidelines, all civil cases will be conducted remotely via video conferencing platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Attorneys, judges, and other court personnel will participate in these virtual hearings from their respective locations, eliminating the need for in-person appearances and reducing the risk of exposure to the virus.The decision to implement virtual hearings comes as New York City grapples with a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, prompting concerns about the safety of in-person court proceedings. By transitioning to virtual hearings, the courts hope to ensure that civil cases can proceed in a timely manner while also minimizing the risk of transmission within court facilities.Despite the challenges posed by the shift to virtual hearings, Chief Judge DiFiore expressed confidence in the ability of the courts to adapt to this new mode of operation. She emphasized the importance of maintaining access to justice for all individuals, regardless of the circumstances.The implementation of virtual hearings for civil cases marks a significant step towards ensuring the continuity of court operations in the face of the ongoing public health crisis. As the situation continues to evolve, the courts will remain vigilant in their efforts to safeguard the health and safety of all individuals involved in the civil justice system.