Judge Dellick: ‘Life is Fleeting, Cannot Be Taken for Granted’

Mahoning County Juvenile Court Judge Theresa Dellick is hanging tough. You can read more about the court at its website.

What are some ways the COVID-19 outbreak has changed your work life?

Court is open daily, but the public is admitted only to essential hearings. All other hearings are held via teleconference and video conference. Detention remains open, too. Temperatures are taken prior to entering the courthouse and surgical/N95 face masks are worn by all. The building is daily disinfected to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, both Courtside and Detention. Ensuring the safety and wellness of each staff member and student is essential. The major changes confine staff to offices and restrict movement. We consider ourselves a family at JJC and being unable to see each other has created options to remain in touch. I was fortunate, on my birthday, that the staff joined in on a conference call and sang “Happy Birthday” to me.

What steps are you taking to hang tough?

These are not ordinary times so they require extraordinary faith and patience. We remain positive and follow all recommended health precautions. As a Juvenile Court, we are to find solutions to problems and inspire hope.  These are serious times and require us to remain strong and steadfast and to encourage others not to give up.

What advice are you sharing with the people you love?

This is real. This is serious.  This is the time to strictly follow recommended health rules and precautions. If a person feels sad and depressed, which is normal, then I suggest reaching out to professionals for help.  This is also the time to let others know how much they mean to you. Life is fleeting and cannot be taken for granted.