The Tennessee Supreme Court issued an “Order Extending State of Emergency and Suspending Jury Trial”. Citing the recent significant increase in COVID-19 cases in Tennessee, and the Court’s receipt of a number of reports of failures to comply with the approved comprehensive written plans of judicial districts by judges, attorneys, and litigants, including in some instances the appearance in open court of attorneys and litigants who have tested positive for COVID-19, the Order suspends all jury trials from November 23 through January 2021, subject only to exceptions which may be granted by the Chief Justice on a case-by-case basis.
The Order also provides that (1) the approved comprehensive written plans of the respective judicial districts continue in full force and effect and judges and attorneys have an ethical obligation to strictly adhere to the plans and to the provisions of all orders of the Court related to COVID-19 (2) the Court’s July 9 Order requiring face coverings in courthouses remains in full force and effect (3) all court matters should be conducted by video conferencing and telephonic conferences, if possible, as an alternative to in-court proceedings and (4) no one shall appear in court or in a court-related proceeding, including a deposition, who has tested positive for COVID-19 until the participant has strictly complied with the requirements of the CDC regarding isolation of individuals who have tested positive.
Let us know if you have any questions. We continue to represent all your needs, albeit from remote locations at times. Take care and stay well.