Metalclad Seeks Mistrial in Asbestos Case, Cites Inappropriate Interaction Between Plaintiff and Jurors

OAKLAND, Calif. –– A defendant involved in an ongoing asbestos personal injury trial has renewed its efforts to obtain a mistrial in the fully remote trial, outlining the plaintiff’s interactions with jurors on Zoom while counsel and court officials were in a separate breakout room.

On Aug. 17, Metalclad Insulation renewed its motion with the California Superior Court for Alameda County that trial proceedings be fully recorded in an effort to “prevent further prejudice to its constitutional right to receive a fair trial and ensure a fair and complete record for trial motions, post-trial motions, and appellate review.”

Plaintiffs …