The New York Court of Appeals convened in Albany on Tuesday and heard in-person arguments, even as a myriad of other high-profile institutions have postponed or canceled their operations due to the growing coronavirus outbreak.

New York Court of Appeals spokesman Gary Spencer said all seven judges were in attendance and the courtroom seating arrangement was reconfigured to create more space between the judges.

The practice is known as “social distancing” and officials say it can help stop the spread of the coronavirus that has infected more than 1,300 people in New York alone. 

Spencer said the high court was not open to public spectators.

The judges heard three cases at 2 pm, one insurance matter and two criminal cases.

There had been three arguments listed on the court’s calendar for Wednesday, but Spencer said the Wednesday arguments have been adjourned.

The judges will hold an in-person conference, Spencer said..

Rules promulgated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, designed to disperse persons and reduce density, have closed gyms, movie theaters and casinos throughout the state. New York State officials have discouraged gatherings of any more than 50 persons. President Donald Trump said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended that persons not gather in groups of greater than 10.

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