First criminal jury trial since all jury trials were suspended in April 2020
CHELAN COUNTY, September 28, 2020. We are pleased to announce that Chelan County Superior Court recently completed its first criminal jury trial since all jury trials were suspended in April 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The resumption of jury trials reflects extensive coordination and safety planning among court partners.
The court sends a big THANK YOU to the 47 Chelan County residents who reported in three waves to take part in jury orientation and selection. Group sizes were limited to 18 to allow for appropriate social distancing in the jury assembly room and courtroom. By the end of the day, a jury had been selected and each of the jurors had been contacted by phone or e-mail to advise whether they would need to report back the following morning. During those contacts, prospective jurors were asked if they had any concerns regarding the orientation and selection process. The jurors overwhelmingly reported they felt comfortable with the safety measures implemented by the court. At the end of the trial, Judge Kristin Ferrera discussed the process with the seated jurors and all felt comfortable and safe throughout the trial and deliberation processes.
Again, we are thankful to the members of our community who are willing to fulfill this important civic duty. We invite anyone who receives a summons to visit our website at https://www.co.chelan.wa.us/superior-court to learn more about jury duty and the precautions we have put in place to ensure the safety of jurors, staff and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have questions or concerns about jury service, please feel free to contact the Chelan County superior court administrator or jury administrator in the Chelan County Clerk’s Office
CONTACT:
Chelan County Superior Court: superiorcourt.judge@co.chelan.wa.us – 509-667-6210
Chelan County Clerk: superiorcourt.clerk@co.chelan.wa.us – 509-667-6380
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Posted: 09/274/2020 10:23 AM
Last Updated: 09/274/2020 10:24 AM