As government, businesses, schools and others join the rapidly heightening response to the COVID-19 threat, it was announced late Thursday that no new jury trials will begin in New Jersey state courts.

Pending jury trials will go ahead, as will grand jury proceedings, for now.

The move comes as the judiciary also implements other changes, such as staggering court calls, and going to virtual or telephonic proceedings, the announcement noted.

"Effective immediately, the Judiciary is suspending jury service for new trials," Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said in a statement. "While jury trials are a critical component of our justice system, this extraordinary step is necessary to protect the health and safety of the community. At the same time, we will make every effort to keep our court system running in the face of this health crisis."

A statement from Gov. Phil Murphy also was included with the announcement.

"After consultation with the Commissioner of Health, today I recommended the cancellation of all public gatherings of more than 250 individuals to mitigate the spread of COVID-19," Murphy said. "We are in full support of the Judiciary's response to this public health emergency."