Del. courts pausing jury trials as COVID-19 cases rise

WILMINGTON, Del. – Chief Justice Collins J. Seitz Jr. has announced that the Delaware courts will postpone jury trials and transition back to Phase Two of the courts’ four-phase reopening plan.

This comes after a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in Delaware, putting a strain on the state’s healthcare system.

“We believe it is prudent at this time to pause our reopening plans until the situation stabilizes. By stepping back to Phase Two restrictions we will once again limit the number of people at our court facilities – both visitors and staff – to limit the possible spread of COVID-19. It is important to note that the Delaware Courts will not be closing to the public like we did in March. Court facilities will remain open to the public. The transition back to Phase Two means that some restrictions that had been lifted in October will be re-imposed,” said Chief Justice Seitz.

During Phase Two, Delaware court facilities will remain open to the public, but staffing levels and building capacity will decrease from 75 percent to 50 percent. In addition, no more than 10 visitors will be allowed in any courtroom. Proceedings involving non-incarcerated individuals can continue, including non-jury civil and criminal trials. Grand jury proceedings will also continue.

We’re told in most cases, Delaware courts will continue to conduct business whenever possible through video or audio conferencing technology, and employees will work remotely.

For the latest on the Delaware Judiciary’s response to COVID-19, click here.