Jury trials will resume in area courthouses after 12th Circuit Presiding Judge Jason Lamb announced the court’s next phase of COVID procedures on May 3.
“The right to trial by jury …
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Jury trials will resume in area courthouses after 12th Circuit Presiding Judge Jason Lamb announced the court’s next phase of COVID procedures on May 3.
“The right to trial by jury is a cornerstone of our society, and jury trials involve sacrifice from those citizens called upon to serve,” said Judge Lamb. “Throughout the pandemic, our overriding goals have been protecting the health and safety of everyone who enters the courthouses while ensuring access to justice for all people. These goals will continue to guide our efforts to protect all individuals who participate in jury trials, including those citizens called upon to perform this vital civic duty.”’
Jury selection procedures will be modified to accommodate social distancing. Potential jurors will be called to report at designated times in small panels. All potential jurors will receive information with their summons regarding protective health measures in place at the courthouses such as screening checkpoints upon entry, masks within public areas related to court functions, and heightened sanitation procedures.
Potential jurors will also receive instructions on how they can request deferrals relating to COVID exposure or vulnerability concerns.
Additionally, in-person proceedings may resume in all divisions, including municipal court. However, video dockets will continue to be utilized frequently throughout the circuit.
