Friday, December 12, 2008

Harlow Trial Q and A

With Harlow Cuadra's trial scheduled to start within a couple of weeks, I've decided to put together a Q&A post to answer several questions that I've been receiving over the course of the past few months:

Q: When does the trial start?

A: Jury selection is scheduled to begin on 02/17/09 at 9:00 AM.

Q: Can anyone attend the trial?

A: Yes, though it'll be on a first-come first-served basis. Family and press are usually given assigned seating... the rest will be up for grabs.

Q: How many people are allowed in the courtroom?

A: Depending upon the courtroom (it'll likely be #2) ... between 70 and 80 people or so.

Q: Should I get there early?

A: Yes... get there a little early as PPO likes to start right on time. I wouldn't expect a line to get in, but in some cases, the sheriff has put additional security, on top of the courthouse security at the entrances, to scan people going in. If they do, that could take a little longer and create a line. If that's not in place, you should be able to walk right in and grab a seat. The front rows on each side will likely be closed for security issues.

Q: What's the closet hotel to the Courthouse?

A: Here's a list of hotels and their distances.

Q: Can I get seats or tickets ahead of time?

A: No. Unless your immediate family, it's first-come first-served... so get there early.

Q: Where's the nearest airport?

A: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, it's about 12 miles from the Courthouse.

Q: Where should I park?

A: There's a small parking lot across the street from the Courthouse, though it tends to fill up fast. There's also several other parking lots and garages nearby... free parking will likely be difficult to find unless you're staying at the Ramada or Best Western, were you'd be better-off just leaving the car and walking (assuming it's not 20 below).

Q: What are the Courthouse hours?

A: Monday thru Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM... you can usually get in a little earlier.

Q: Where's the Courthouse located?

A: 200 North River Street in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania.

Q: Are electronics permitted in the Courthouse?

A: Cell phones with cameras are not allowed in the building. Laptops are permitted in court, as long as they do not record anything. Recording devices of any kind are not allowed in court. Cameras are allowed on the first floor only, unless otherwise directed by a judge. I'm not sure what the rule on blackberrys is.

Q: Will the trial be televised?

A: No.

If I missed any questions... please feel free to ask in the comments section, and I'll try to have an answer for you as quickly as possible.