10/19/2020
Today marks the return to what could best be described as "normal" for jury trials. In 45 minutes, I head over to the courthouse to begin trial on the case of the State of Alabama v. Damion Briggs. A scathing 2-count indictment for So**my in the First Degree which will yield Mr. Briggs a mandatory "Life Without Possibility of Parole" sentence if convicted on either of the 2 counts.
Representing the State is the always competent, but always-straight forward, Tim Douthit. Judge Alison Austin has agreed to try the case in the place of Judge Hundley who has a different case beginning trial in his Courtroom. I have tried a handful of cases before Judge Austin, but never had the opportunity to try one in front of Judge Hundley.
The mechanics of a trial are the same. I am ready to do my part to hold the Government to the highest burden of proof that our law imposes in criminal proceedings.
Though a very significant case with very serious consequences potentially in the balance, the case is not a particularly difficult case. It's a straight forward "didn't do it" defense. A "he said/she said", if you will.
The biggest challenge will be the jury composition in these post-Covid times. Who will actually show up for jury duty? Who will want to sit around in a courtroom and pay attention to the details...especially if they have concerns about their safety or family members.
The justice system cannot grind to a perpetual halt, however. Safeguards are in place, and our Judges, their staff, and the Court Administrator's office, Clerk's office, and many others have gone way above and beyond to provide the safest and most effective methods for resuming trials. It's our jobs as officers of the Court to move forward the best way we can in the system that we have been given.
