The leaders of the judicial branch have tried. They have really tried to figure out a way to restart jury trials despite the pandemic, the worst public health crisis we have faced since 1918. They have tried despite facilities that often are barely adequate during ordinary times, despite staffing limitations, and despite lack of resources to meet this unplanned and unprecedented situation.
It is time to give up. It is time to put on hold any efforts to hold jury trials in the midst of the pandemic. It is time to be open and transparent with parties, lawyers and the public that fair and safe jury trials are just not possible now and that yes, regrettably, there will be a further delay. There are worse outcomes than delays.
