On March 18, 2020, pursuant to §§ 12-2-30(b)(8) and 25-5-12, Ala. Code 1975, Chief Justice Tom Parker issued “Administrative Order Concerning Workers’ Compensation Cases During the Period of Suspension of In-Person Proceedings,” authorizing circuit judges to conduct workers’ compensation settlement hearings telephonically or by videoconference.  This Order also authorizes the use of the Alabama Department of Labor Ombudsman Program for remote approval of workers’ compensation settlements as well, and specifically allows the dismissal of a workers’ compensation claim that was pending in court if settled with written approval of an ombudsman.  The order is in effect until October 29, 2021, or further order of the Court.