Jury Service

Notification and Procedures

Prospective jurors receive a questionnaire which must be completed and returned. This packet will also include your juror number, the dates of your service and the phone number to be used during your "on call" week. Jurors are instructed to call every evening. The recorded message will provide instructions for those who are required to report for duty.

Upon arrival at the designated court, jurors are directed to the waiting area and then escorted to the courtroom. In the court room, all prospective jurors take an oath or affirm that they will truthfully answer all questions posed to them by the judge and the attorneys. The purpose of the questioning (voir dire) is to determine if there is some reason why it might be difficult for a juror to be fair and impartial in the case being tried. After paying close attention to the witnesses, the evidence and the judge's instruction, jurors go to the deliberation room. A foreperson is elected to ensure that all issues are considered and every juror is given a chance to participate.

When the verdict is reached, the jurors agreeing to the verdict sign the verdict form and notify the bailiff. The jury returns to the court room and the verdict is read by the judge and the jury is dismissed.

Most jurors find that jury duty is a positive experience. They have the opportunity to learn about the legal system and gain an understanding of the important contribution made by jurors. Their service is of significant benefit to the entire community.

Types of Juries & Length of Service

Most jurors will be selected to serve on a "petit jury". The number of jurors required is determined by the type of case and the court in which the proceedings will be held. If a trial is expected to last more than one day, the judge may decide to have alternate jurors selected in the case something should happen to one of the original jury panel. Jurors selected for service on a "petit jury" in this county are "on call" for one week.

The "grand jury" does not decide guilt or innocence. Rather these jurors hear evidence and decide whether a person should be "indicted" and tried for committing a crime. Persons selected on a grand jury serve a two month term and report on alternating Tuesday or Thursday mornings.