In an effort to preserve the constitutional right to a speedy trial, the LASC will give priority to criminal trials that were previously continued under a judicial emergency order (Penal Code § 1382) in assigning available prospective jurors for either misdemeanor or felony jury trials.
Presently, there are approximately 7,000 criminal cases that must be tried to satisfy defendants’ statutory speedy trial rights.
At the same time, while most civil trials will be continued until January 2021, all other civil non-jury trials may resume on or after November 16, 2020
According to the latest General Order, a number of other proceedings will be resumed. They include small claims and traffic trials; juvenile dependency matters allowed under the dependency prioritization plan; and family law evidentiary proceedings, whether family code section 217 hearings or trials, other than restraining order hearings, that may be completed within two court days.
The new General Order maintains and reiterates the previous orders of Presiding Judge Brazile regarding mandatory face coverings, observance of social distancing protocols, limited access to proceedings, and the need for appointments to visit the Clerk’s Office and Self-Help Centers.
For complete details, please go to https://sfvba.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/20-NR-PRESIDING-JUDGE-ISSUES-NEW-GO-10092020.pdf
