Manatee courts set to bring jurors back into the courtroom amid pandemic

The 12th Judicial Circuit Court is set to bring jurors back into the courtroom for trials starting later this month.

“The court entered Phase 2 Operations in Manatee and Sarasota counties on Aug. 17, which means that jury trials may begin 30 days after that,” the court announced Thursday.

Virtually all court proceedings have been being held remotely through the pandemic, but that will change.

“Clerks in Manatee and Sarasota counties have issued jury summons for jury selection beginning Sept. 16,” according to the court’s statement. “Due to social distancing requirements, we are starting slowly, with only one or two trials scheduled for the first weeks.”

Anyone entering the court buildings must wear a mask or will be provided with a disposable mask to wear while inside the facilities. Everyone entering also must answer health screening questions and have temperatures taken.

To learn more, visit jud12fl.courts/News/COVID-19.