We have now passed the one-year benchmark of when the global COVID-19 pandemic began affecting essentially all areas of business (and life). The good news is that it seems tides are beginning to turn, and that progress is slowly being reflected within the court system in Arizona. Below you will find updated information with respect to how various courts in Arizona are modifying their operations in the direction of a “return to normal.” We will continue to provide updates as additional guidelines are set forth by Arizona Courts. If you have any questions about these issues, please contact Brian Rubin (602-604-7509/ brubin@trkfirm.com) or Michael Kelley (602-604-7505/ mkelley@trkfirm.com).
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MARICOPA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
The Presiding Judge of the Maricopa County Superior Court issued an Administrative Order on March 15, 2021. This Order provides updated information with respect to conducting jury operations during the public health emergency in Maricopa County. The relevant guidelines are as follows:
The limitations placed on criminal jury trials within the previous order (December 3, 2020) are lifted. Criminal jury trials may resume utilizing fifteen safely spaced courtrooms until further ordered.
Effective April 1, 2021, civil jury trials may recommence under a modified calendar system. Only one civil jury trial may take place at a time within each courthouse (East, Old Courthouse, Southeast, and Northeast).
Except for jury trials and other specifically enumerated in-person hearings, the Court will continue to conduct business via audio and visual platforms.
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PIMA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
The Presiding Judge of Pima County Superior Court issued an updated Administrative Order on February 4, 2021. The relevant guidelines for Pima County are as follows:
All jury trials in Pima County Superior Court and all Pima County limited jurisdiction courts are suspended until and through March 31, 2021.
No additional orders have been issued with respect to court operations after the March 31, 2021 moratorium expires. __________________________________________________________________
ARIZONA DISTRICT COURTS
The Chief Judge in the United States District Courts, District of Arizona, issued an updated Administrative Order on March 8, 2021. The relevant guidelines are as follows:
Civil and criminal jury trials may be scheduled and resume as of March 1, 2021.
Grand Jury proceedings may resume the week of March 22, 2021.