- Elizabeth Larson
- Posted On
Lake County Superior Court to resume jury trials with enhanced social distancing
Court officials said jury trials are tentatively scheduled to resume on July 8 at the Lakeport Courthouse.
The court suspended all jury trials on March 16, three days before state and county shelter in place orders went into effect.
Under emergency orders issued by the Judicial Council of California, the constitutional right to a speedy trial was extended by 90 days.
While the county and state shelter in place orders remain in effect, the county of Lake is moving through approved phases of reopening.
The Lake County Superior Court reopened its public counter in early June and has continued many kinds of hearings and appearances via video conference.
Now, it’s moving toward reestablishing one of its key functions, jury trials.
Court officials said jury summonses have been sent out to community members for next week’s jury selection.
“Trial by jury is foundational to our democracy and the cornerstone of our justice system,” said Presiding Judge Michael Lunas. “The court is always appreciative of jurors who fulfill their responsibility to serve on a jury, especially those who will be called on to do so during these uncertain times.”
During the past several months, the court has implemented additional physical distancing measures based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health.
The court also has been working closely with Lake County Public Health Officer Dr. Gary Pace to ensure all appropriate precautions have been taken.
The measures are designed to reduce the potential transmission of COVID-19 while also allowing the court to increase operations and expand access to justice.
The court said its plans to restore services balance the court’s constitutional responsibilities while supporting the goals of public health in mitigating the potential spread of COVID-19.
Precautions to keep jurors safe include the following:
– Enhanced cleaning measures have been implemented.
– All courtrooms have a supply of hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and cleaning spray, and gloves available.
– Touchless hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the court building.
– In accordance with the governor and the Public Health officer’s orders for mandatory face coverings when indoors, all jurors, attorneys, parties, court staff and judges will be required to wear face coverings.
– The reporting times will be staggered to reduce the number of people in jury assembly and the courtroom.
– The number of jurors sent to a courtroom at one time will be limited. Courtroom seating has been taped off seating to enforce social distancing.
– Plexiglass guards have been installed on the witness stands.
– Once seated on a jury, the jurors will deliberate in the courtroom instead of the jury deliberation room.
– An online hardship request process is available which will allow jurors to request a hardship without physically coming to the court building.
– Individuals considered at high-risk of COVID-19-related complications may reschedule their jury service online.
– Any individuals who appear to be ill will be sent home.
For more information about court operations and updates, visit the court’s website.
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