Jury trials have been suspended in Queensland as the latest measure to help slow the spread of Covid-19 throughout the state.
A notice was sent out to legal practitioners this morning announcing the suspension.
It comes as Queensland continues to see a rise in coronavirus cases each day, with over 9,500 posted yesterday. Today’s figures are not yet known.
It means that new jury trials won’t be able to begin at least until the end of February.
“All new trials in Queensland requiring a jury have been suspended as a precautionary measure,” the notice reads.
“Jury trials will not recommence before 21 February 2022.
“The situation will be reviewed on 11 February 2022.
“Jury trials currently listed to commence before that date will be reviewed by the court at a time notified by the registry.
“Within courtrooms, safe distances should be maintained, and practitioners should not be present in court other than when their matters are being dealt with.
“All parties should refer to Supreme Court Practice Direction 24 of 2021 and District Court Practice Direction 12 of 2021,” the notice finishes.
The Queensland Premier is due to provide a Covid-19 update later this morning.
