Prospective
jurors receive a questionnaire which must be completed and returned
in a self-addressed, stamped envelope. (All information received
will be treated confidentially.) 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.
