The St. Louis County Municipal Courts have been closed since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but they will open back up for optional appointments to resolve cases, either virtual or in person.

The county said the program is “continuing efforts to engage with communities and keep the justice system moving forward” and is calling the virtual hearings a “Court Relief Program.”

As of Oct. 1, the St. Louis County Municipal Court Relief Program will allow individuals with pending cases, outstanding warrants or outstanding fines and costs to make virtual or in-person appointments at the South, Central or North Municipal Courts locations to discuss their cases. This option will be in effect through Dec. 31.

All in-person court appearances had been suspended since mid-March due to COVID-19 precautions. Virtual hearings provide an option to allow cases to move forward should individuals choose that option.

“St. Louis County’s goal is to provide the community with necessary services while maintaining health and safety,” said County Executive Sam Page in a news release. “Being flexible and providing options ensures the community continues to have access to the judicial system even as we’re reducing in-person contact to limit the risk of COVID-19 spread.”

Cases involving domestic violence, assault, driving on a suspended or revoked license, or intoxication-related offenses are not eligible for the Court Relief Program. However, individuals with cases that include these alleged violations may still make an appointment to speak with a judge to request a warrant recall.

“St. Louis County Municipal Court believes it is the court’s responsibility to ensure that the people in our communities continue to have access to justice by way of our courts,” said Courtney Whiteside, director of the St. Louis County Municipal Court, in the release. “This year has been challenging, but we are rising to meet each challenge with solutions that will benefit the community for years to come.”

For more information on the County Municipal Court Relief Program, including hours and appointments, visit: www.stlouisco.com/Law-and-Public-Safety/Municipal-Court.

For specific questions regarding a warrant or details of Municipal Court Relief Program, individuals are encouraged to call 314-615-8760.