The Iowa Judicial Branch is suspending jury trials because of the threat of the virus outbreak.

Appellate courts will not hear in-person arguments scheduled through May 15, although some cases may be judged without oral arguments or use teleconference or videoconference hearings.

Criminal jury trials are delayed until no earlier than April 20, and civil jury trials are delayed until no earlier than May 4.

Chief Justice Susan Christensen also ordered courts on Saturday to continue preparing to minimize the impact on judicial services.

Read a copy of Iowa’s supervisory order at bit.ly/iowactcovid.

– Scott Stewart