The role of the jury is to provide unbiased views or resolution to evidence presented in a case in a court of law . Jury service helps to support fairness in trials; jury service is able to give impartial viewpoints on cases that are presented in court. ... We are accountable through our participation in jury service.
Why is jury duty important to citizens?
Jurors perform a vital role in the American system of justice. ... Jury service is a high duty of citizenship . Jurors aid in the maintenance of law and order and uphold justice among their fellow citizens. Their greatest reward is the knowledge that they have discharged this duty faithfully, honorably, and well.
What is the point of jury duty?
The point of jury duty is to ensure there are people available to participate in that process . It helps the community, and the country, in that it provides access to Justice by means of a jury trial.
Is jury duty a duty or responsibility?
Jury service is one of the most important civic duties you can perform. The protection of rights and liberties in federal courts largely is achieved through the teamwork of a judge and jury.
Is jury duty mandatory?
Is jury duty mandatory? Yes . The United States Constitution guarantees the right to a trial by jury in both criminal and civil cases. Your participation as a juror helps make that possible.
How is a jury selected?
Juror Selection
Each district court randomly selects citizens’ names from lists of registered voters and people with drivers licenses who live in that district. The people randomly selected complete a questionnaire to help determine if they are qualified to serve on a jury.
How should I dress for jury duty?
You do not have to wear a suit and tie, but you should dress in neat, comfortable clothes . Do not wear thongs or shorts. As you may be sitting for long periods of time it is important to be comfortable, whilst still showing respect for the court.
What should I know before jury duty?
- It is hard to know in advance what lawyers will ask, but you should always answer honestly. The questions should not be too personal. ...
- Speak loudly when answering the questions. ...
- You can try to get out of jury service by telling the judge that you cannot serve, but at this point, it will be difficult.
Is jury duty random?
In California, a pool of potential jurors is randomly selected from the local population of individuals eligible for jury duty.
Do I get paid for jury duty?
Federal jurors are paid $50 a day . Jurors can receive up to $60 a day after serving 45 days on a grand jury. (Employees of the federal government are paid their regular salary in lieu of this fee.) Jurors also are reimbursed for reasonable transportation expenses and parking fees.
What is the best excuse for jury duty?
- Extreme Financial Hardship. ...
- Full-Time Student Status. ...
- Surgery/Medical Reasons. ...
- Being Elderly. ...
- Being Too Opinionated. ...
- Mental/Emotional Instability. ...
- Relation to the Case/Conflict of Interest. ...
- Line of Work.
How long does jury service last?
How long jury service lasts. A jury panel usually is in place for about four weeks . During this time jurors could be chosen from the panel and be sworn to sit on more than one trial. Trials can last a few days or a number of weeks.
Why are jurors exempted from jury service?
Reasons for being excused
jury service would cause undue hardship or serious inconvenience to you , your family or the public. ... there is a conflict of interest or some other knowledge, acquaintance or friendship that you have which may result in your being perceived as lacking impartiality as a juror.
What happens if I miss jury duty?
Missing a jury duty date will usually lead to a second summons for jury duty . However, continuing to ignore a summons may be treated as contempt of court and punished by fines, jail time or both. Jurors can prevent this from happening by showing they were excused from jury service.
What is the oldest age for jury duty?
A: There is no age exemption for jury service . If you are 70 years of age or older, the California Rules of Court allow you to be excused due to a medical condition without a doctor’s note. You must inform the court that you are not able to serve.
Can you wear sneakers to jury duty?
You are expected to conduct yourself with reserve and courtesy, and when appearing at the courthouse, must dress appropriately to preserve the dignity of the Court. Proper attire includes coat and tie for men and similarly appropriate attire for women. No jeans , polo shirts or sneakers.
