In somewhat late-breaking news, at least for some people, the Pittsfield District Court has been temporarily closed down for disinfecting and it will remain closed for the remainder of the week.

According to a Mass.gov media statement, a number of District Court staff have tested positive for COVID-19. No reopening date has been announced yet as the facility is disinfected to prevent further exposure to the virus.

FYI, all court matters scheduled for Wednesday, December 14 through Friday, December 17 will receive a further date from the clerk's office. All emergency matters will be handled virtually or in-person either at Northern Berkshire District Court in North Adams on Wednesday, December 15, or Friday, December 17, or in Great Barrington on Thursday, December 16 at Southern Berkshire District Court.

It was also noted that all applicants for Abuse Prevention, Harassment, Emergency Risk Prevention Orders, and Civil Commitments should get in touch with someone at their local police station. Local police will then notify a court or an emergency judge for further assistance.

Any individuals seeking an Abuse Prevention Order during regular business hours should contact Berkshire Family Probate Court to apply for an order. In addition to Pittsfield itself, the District Court also serves the towns of Becket, Dalton, Hancock, Hinsdale, Lanesborough, Lenox, Peru, Richmond, Washington, and Windsor.

For more info, please visit Mass.gov's website here.

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