The Texas Lawbook

Free Speech, Due Process and Trial by Jury

Judge Declares Mistrial in EDTX Case that Underwent COVID-19 Outbreak — Updated

A federal judge in the Eastern District of Texas on Tuesday declared a mistrial in a commercial case after a COVID-19 outbreak among participants of the jury trial temporarily closed the Sherman federal courthouse and left the parties with less than six jurors.

During a telephonic hearing Tuesday afternoon, District Judge Amos Mazzant, III declared a mistrial after lawyers from both sides confirmed with the court that they could not come to an agreement to continue the trial with less than six jurors. Judge Mazzant had originally scheduled for the trial to resume Nov. 30.

Natalie Posgate

Natalie Posgate covers pro bono work, public service and diversity within the Texas legal community.

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