In the News

California Jury Trials Suspended

California jury trials suspended through mid-May by California Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye to adopt new rules that address the impact of COVID-19.

As of March 23, 2020:

All jury trials suspended for 60 days.
Time periods to begin both criminal and civil trials is extended for 60 days.

For both of the above, courts may conduct a trial at an earlier date upon either finding of good cause shown or through use of remote technology when appropriate.

Superior courts are authorized to adopt any proposed rules or rule amendment intended to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to take effect immediately, without advance circulation for public comment. A court adopting any such rule change must immediately distribute it, and no litigant’s substantive rights shall be prejudiced for failing to comply with the requirements of a new or amended wrule until at least 20 days after its distribution.

Note: Federal Court (not included in state court) is preparing to utilize video conferencing.

What Will Continue to Take Place at the Courthouse

The courthouse will stay open as an essential service. Additionally, some functions will continue at the courthouse during this time.

For instance, protecting both the rights and needs of the accused in a safe way. This in conjunction with guarding both the health and safety of the public. Also court employees, attorneys, litigants, judicial officers, law enforcement, and both staff and inmates in detention facilities.

COVID-19 Timeline: Events Affecting California

March 4, 2020

Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency in California due to the spread of COVID-19.

March 13, 2020

President Trump declared a national emergency due to the pandemic.

March 16, 2020

California counties began issuing either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders.

March 19, 2020

Governor Newsom issued an order requiring all Californians to stay home, subject to limited exemptions. For example, courts exempt. Schools closed statewide.

March 23, 2020

The CDC reported more than 40,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States, and more than 500 deaths. In California: 1,700 confirmed cases and more than 30 deaths.

California Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye suspends jury trials for 60 days.

March 28, 2020

California Judicial Council approves temporary emergency measures to aid courts during COVID-19 pandemic.