CaseBarnettLaw.com The Courts Are Open — It’s Been Interesting BACK IN SESSION 949-565-2993 In a recent edition of our newsletter, we considered the ways in which the courts may change as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While Zoom hearings offered a temporary solution, we all knew courthouses would once again host lawyers, judges, and juries for trials some day.
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ONE-PAN APPLE CIDER CHICKEN
Well, that day has come, and it’s been … interesting!
Since we practice in California, there are strict rules in place, including mask requirements for everyone in the courtroom. However, we don’t believe that’s necessarily a bad thing. While they may be annoying, masks do protect us from the spread of germs, and Case believes masks could create more impartiality. Rather than seeing subtle body language or facial expressions, jurors and judges are forced to examine the facts. This can prevent collusion when coming to decisions. Of course, this also means attorneys have a hard time reading the credibility and honesty of jurors. There are a few telltale signs of a person’s character, but these become difficult to identify when half of the face is covered with a mask. Moreover, returning to court means juries are in a precarious situation. Case underwent jury selection in mid-July, and in order to do that, 180 summons were sent out across the county. Jurors were assigned to groups of 45 and a specific time to show up for jury selection to limit the interaction and potential spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, less than half of the people who were summoned showed up for service. The virus also impacted who was available. Case estimates that a quarter of the potential jurors were starting up work again and couldn’t leave their jobs. Others faced complications or family implications due to the virus. This limited the jury pool, coupled with these factors, made jury selection a more tedious process. As the case progresses, the biggest fear on both sides is the potential for a positive COVID-19 test. This could delay proceedings or result in a mistrial and could delay justice. Regardless of the new protocols to worry about, it feels great to be back in court fighting for our clients. Masks and potential jury complications shouldn’t deter you from the justice you deserve. To learn more about how Case Barnett Law can help you, please contact us today. Pandemic or not, you deserve someone who will fight for you.
Inspired by WellPlated.com
Bring the taste of fall into your kitchen with this sizzling skillet meal.
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs • 1 tsp salt, divided • 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
• 1/2 cup apple cider • 2 tsp Dijon mustard • 4 tsp olive oil, divided
• 3 sweet apples, cut into 1/2-inch slices • 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped, plus more for garnish
Directions
1. Sprinkle chicken with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Set aside. 2. In a small bowl, combine apple cider and mustard. Set aside. 3. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tsp olive oil. When shimmering, add chicken thighs top- side down. Cook for 4 minutes, then flip and cook for 4 more minutes. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil. Wipe the skillet clean. 4. Heat the remaining oil in the skillet, then add sliced apples, remaining salt and pepper, and rosemary. Cook for 5 minutes. 5. Return the chicken to the skillet and
add apple cider-mustard mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, then serve sprinkled with rosemary!
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