The Los Angeles County Superior Court is recommending a delay in trials for 30 days amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Judge Kevin C. Brazile of the Superior Court issued the recommendation that would affect all new civil jury trials and in criminal jury trials where the defendants have agreed to "waive time," reported the LA Times.
Brazile acknowledged he lacked the legal authority to shut down the courtrooms and would require the approval of the state chief justice.
While an official ruling has not been determined, California Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye issued a statement addressing how they are dealing with the health crisis.
"Although the extent of the pandemic is unknown at this time, California's courts will continue to do what they do best: balancing public safety and health while protecting liberty and due process. Court users should check with their local courts or court websites for updates on how a court is responding to the crisis," Justice Cantil-Sakauye wrote.
On Friday, a top federal judge in Los Angeles also announced no jurors would be called for criminal and civil trials until April 13th in an attempt to curtail exposure to the virus. The decision affects courthouses in Los Angeles, Santa Ana and Riverside.
Other counties across the state have been reviewing similar protocols as the COVID-19 outbreak continues to spread.
On Friday, President Trump declared a national emergency over the coronavirus pandemic.
