Arizona trial courts on alert to handle possible Election Day cases
Oct 23, 2020, 4:30 PM
(Pixabay Photo)
PHOENIX (AP) — Arizona’s top judge has ordered the state trial courts in all 15 counties to remain open until polls close on Election Day to accept last-minute filings in possible election-related cases.
The order Supreme Court Chief Justice Robert Brutinel issued Thursday says the Superior Courts and their clerks’ offices need to remain open and available “to ensure prompt consideration of any legal dispute regarding voting.”
Brutinel also ordered the Superior Courts to notify the clerks of the state Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court if they receive an election-related case.
Supreme Court spokesman Aaron Nash told The Associated Press that the high court has never before issued such an order, but needed to “be responsive to election issues, if the need arises.
“Election challenges could arise in any trial court, involve quick action and strict deadlines, and this administrative order ensures preparation before a need arises,” Nash added.
Election Day is Nov. 3, and polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.