Chief justice extends criminal trials another 30 days

Superior courts have more time to delay criminal trials under a new order by California Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye, though she urged judges to hold trials as soon as possible, including through remote technology.

Wednesday's order adds 30 days to the already extended deadline, bringing the total pandemic-related extension to 90 days.

Cantil-Sakauye ordered a 60-day extension on March 23. It's among several emergency orders and rules addressing trials, jail populations and remote pretrial hearings, suspending evictions and judicial foreclosures and prioritizing certain juvenile justice proceedings.

Her order on Wednesday urged courts "to timely communicate with justice partners regarding the status of pending proceedings."

"Courts are further urged to work with justice partners to encourage and facilitate expeditious settlement, where possible, of cases pending before the court, in compliance with applicable health and safety laws, regulations, and orders, including through the use of remote technology, when appropriate," Cantil-Sakauye wrote.

The order said the extension "is temporary, intended to address the current COVID-19 pandemic as it poses a challenge to court proceedings."

"I reserve the authority to rescind or modify this order, as appropriate, to address changing circumstances," the chief justice wrote.

-- Meghann M. Cuniff