Guidance for Conducting Civil Jury Trials During the COVID-19 Pandemic
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The American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) has published a comprehensive guide to conducting civil jury trials during the COVID-19 pandemic. The white paper, “Guidance for Conducting Civil Jury Trials During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” is a legal resource to address the process of reopening courts and the many issues faced by the courts, the legal community, jurors and the public.
“Unfortunately, the closing of courtrooms across the country has affected hundreds of people whose day in court will be delayed. COVID-19 has challenged the way we all think about the legal system,” says Luther J. Battiste, III, ABOTA National President. “We set forth these guidelines to offer a solution to the courts closing during the pandemic and provide a resource to everyone impacted.”
“We use this as a tool, not a mandate,” said Steven W. Quattlebaum, ABOTA COVID-19 Task Force chair. “Our primary concern was the administration of civil trials while addressing concerns for COVID-19. We hope this serves as a resource to reopen and help all those impacted see their day in court.”
Mr. Quattlebaum said the white paper will provide judges with a resource addressing multiple and complex issues, including options for conducting hearings and non-jury trials, technology that allows for jury trials with jurors participating remotely, and constitutional issues related to the Seventh Amendment.
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