And while hemp is on trial in the court of public opinion, those on trial in the Supreme Court - will soon - once again - be able to be judged by a jury of their peers.
The Registrar General of the Supreme Court is reporting that after almost an entire year of jury trials being suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are being resumed in phases.
Yesterday, The Criminal Division of the Supreme Court resumed jury trials in the first phase in the Southern Judicial District at the Supreme Court in Dangriga Down. Preparations for these trials were recently completed with the retrofitting of the courtrooms to accommodate jurors while observing the COVID safety protocols.
The retrofitting includes providing adequate space for physical distancing, the installation of signage and plexiglass-like dividers for jurors, witnesses, attorneys, and the accused. There is also an implementation of specific guidelines to facilitate the entire process from the selection of jurors to jury deliberation at the close of each trial.
Because the selection of jurors requires the attendance of a number of persons, the Supreme Court has secured an exemption from the Ministry of Health and Wellness to proceed with the process.
The Supreme Court says, quote, "Jurors can be assured that the Supreme Court of Belize will do its utmost best for them to feel safe and comfortable while they exercise their civic duty" End quote.
