The United States Constitution provides every person in the United States, without exception, the right to a trial by jury.  For this right to be granted, citizens of the state in which the trial is to be held must be willing to perform their civic duty as jurors.

Trials allow two or more parties to settle disputes.  Some jury trials are about civil matters and seek to protect a right or to help recover money and/or property.  Other jury trials are about a crime and seek for the imposition of fines and/or incarceration.  Jurors may be summoned to serve for either type of trial.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR JURY SERVICE

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be a United States citizen
• Must be a resident of the county where summoned
• Must not have been convicted of a felony

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUMMONED JURORS

• Read the summons to determine the date and time to report for jury service.
• Inform your employer of your summons.  He or she must allow you time off for jury service and cannot discharge you as long as you provide reasonable notice.
• Plan to attend court as a juror all day.  The time you are released will depend on the court's schedule and is not under the control of the Clerk of Superior Court.
• Please use good judgment in your dress for the day.  Shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops and tee shirts are not appropriate attire. 
• We cannot be responsible for personal belongings and suggest that you do not bring expensive articles with you.
• Parking is available.
• No food or drink may be brought in through the security checkpoint.  Vending machines are provided in Cranford Hall.
• Do not bring children.
• Cell phones or pagers may be used in the Jury Assembly area only.  All phones and pagers must be turned off before entering the courtrooms.

SECURITY CHECKPOINT

Everyone is subject to search when entering through secured area.  All belongings will be scanned.  Anything that could be considered a weapon, including pepper spray, pocket knives, or sharp instruments, such as scissors, will not be allowed.  These items should be left in the car.  Deputies are not allowed to hold these items for anyone.