In commemoration of memorial services for late Justice Tim Armstead, Chief Justice William R. “Bill” Wooton today issued an administrative order declaring Tuesday, Sept. 2, as a Day of Mourning for offices operating within the West Virginia Judicial System.

“Tim Armstead was cherished by colleagues across the judicial branch, and his sudden passing has been a shock to us all,” Chief Justice Wooton said. “This Day of Mourning will allow judicial officers and employees to take time to celebrate Tim’s life, to express our deepest condolences to his family, and to reflect upon and honor his remarkable service to our state.”

Services for Justice Armstead are scheduled in the House of Delegates Chamber at the State Capitol on Tuesday, Sept. 2, with public visitation from 3-6 p.m. and a memorial service following at 6 p.m.

As part of the Day of Mourning, the order calls for a cessation of business for offices and employees on Sept. 2. It applies to all judicial offices and judicial employees operating under the authority, supervision or control of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, including the Intermediate Court of Appeals and magistrate, family and circuit court offices statewide.

The chief circuit judge of each judicial circuit is instructed to take necessary measures to ensure access to magistrate court services during the mourning period.

Circuit judges, family court judges and magistrates will have the discretion to move forward with time-sensitive matters already scheduled on their docket as they deem necessary.

Individuals or parties with proceedings that were scheduled for Sept. 2 should check with the office of the circuit judge, circuit clerk, family court or magistrate staff to inquire about the status of their proceedings and whether they will be rescheduled if they have not yet been notified of any changes.