Advocates Cite More Guilty Pleas As COVID Disrupts Courts

The video discusses the severe backlog in criminal courts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the impact on legal services and the increase in plea bargains. It features a case study from Chicago's Cook County, illustrating the challenges faced by defendants, including prolonged pretrial detention and increased electronic monitoring. The pandemic has left many entangled in the justice system with no clear resolution in sight.

What has been one of the major consequences of the court backlogs during the pandemic?

• Decrease in criminal cases

• Severe and wide-ranging consequences

• Faster resolution of cases

• Increased number of jury trials

What challenge is highlighted in the case study from Chicago?

• Lack of legal representation

• Decrease in felony charges

• Increase in jury trials

• Young people facing felony charges considering plea deals

What percentage of criminal convictions are obtained through plea bargains at the federal level?

• 60%

• 50%

• 97%

• 80%

What has increased in Chicago as a result of the pandemic's impact on the justice system?

• Number of judges

• Number of courtrooms

• Use of electronic monitoring devices

• Number of jury trials

What is a significant risk for those in pretrial detention during the pandemic?

• Being released early

• Serving minimum sentences before proving innocence

• Having more court hearings

• Receiving more legal aid