2. Non-jury proceedings, such as bench trials and hearings, shall proceed as
scheduled unless continued, on a case-bycase basis, by the presiding judge. However,
parties are encouraged to consider participation by telephone or video conferencing when
that option is permitted by law and technologically feasible.
3. All grand jury proceedings in the Northern District of Iowa between March
16, 2020, and April 24, 2020, are continued pending further order of the Court. Grand
jury proceedings on or after April 28, 2020, remain set as previously scheduled, pending
further order of the Court. The 30-day time period for filing an indictment or an
information is hereby tolled as to each defendant during the time period between March
16, 2020, and April 28, 2020, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §§ 3161(b) and 3161(h)(7)(A). For
the same reasons discussed above, the Court finds that the ends of justice served by taking
such action outweigh the best interests of the public and any defendant’s right to a speedy
trial. Therefore, the time period between March 16, 2020, and April 28, 2020, is
excluded under the Speedy Trial Act pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 3161(h)(7)(A), and will
not be considered in determining if an Indictment or Information is filed within the time
limits set forth in 18 U.S.C. § 3161(b).
4. All deadlines established in civil cases shall remain in place, pending any
case-specific adjustments to be made on motion from the parties or on the Court's own
motion. Parties are encouraged to consider conducting discovery through means that
avoid unnecessary travel or personal contact, such as by telephone or video conferencing.
Any dispute over whether discovery can be effectively accomplished consistent with
applicable public health guidelines may be submitted to the Court by motion, subject to
the consultation requirements of N.D. Iowa L.R. 7(k).
5. Except as set forth herein, Court business will proceed as usual to the extent
possible consistent with public health guidelines.
6. The Court will vacate, extend, or amend this Order no later than April 24,
2020.
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