There will be limited seating, even for family members in the courtroom for the trial of Derek Chauvin.
The murder and manslaughter trial for the former police officer accused in the in-custody death of George Floyd is scheduled to start Monday at the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis,
According to court documents outlining courtroom logistics, one seat will be reserved for a famly member of George Floyd, and another for Chauvin's family, although different family members may rotate in and out with the proper credentials.
The limiting of seating room for family members is getting strong reaction from civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Antonion Romanucci.
They released a joint statement on Tuesday:
”This has been a deeply painful and emotional year for every member of the Floyd family, many of whom intended to be in the courtroom to witness this trial, which is now expected to begin on March 29. While they understand the judge’s reasons to limit attendance in the courtroom, the family is understandably disappointed by this ruling. The family is looking forward to the start of the trial as a critical milestone on the path to justice and a step toward closure in this dark chapter of their lives.”
In addition, no one will be allowed to use phones or any other electronic devices anywhere on the 18th floor where the courtroom is located.
All spectators will have assigned seats, keep six feet apart and masked. In addition, no clothing bearing logos or images will be allowed.