As part of Jury Appreciation Week, the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County is highlighting the voices of its jurors. Many who shared their perspective said they entered the process with uncertainty but left with a deeper appreciation for jury service. They described their experience as educational, intriguing and streamlined, and all said they would be willing to serve again.
“We are grateful to the citizens of Maricopa County who take the time out of their busy lives to participate in jury service,” said Raymond Billotte, Maricopa County Superior Court Administrator and jury commissioner. “Our democracy relies on everyday people taking an active role in the justice system to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. When people answer the call for jury service, the system works as intended – reflecting a system that’s of the people, by the people and for the people.”
Jury Appreciation Week, recognized by courts nationwide, is observed during the first week of May, is an annual event recognizing the contribution of jurors and the role they play in ensuring the fair and impartial administration of justice.
“Our justice system cannot work unless everyday citizens are willing to serve. Without jurors, the courts can’t fulfill their constitutional obligation to make sure that people have a way to have their matters resolved by a jury of their peers,” Presiding Judge Pamela Gates said.
The Judicial Branch will mark Jury Appreciation Week with greetings from Judge Gates, Associate Presiding Judge Danielle Viola, and Department Presiding Judges John Blanchard and Jennifer Green. The Court will give special perks to its jurors, including lunches for select jury panels, refreshments and tokens of appreciation.
“Jury Appreciation Week is about showing our gratitude for jurors past, present and future,” said Jury Administrator Tiana Burdick. “There is no better way to showcase or learn about the vital role our jurors play than to hear the thoughts and emotions from the people who have actually served.”
One juror who served on a criminal trial offered advice for future participants: keep an open mind, focus on the evidence and avoid making decisions until all information has been presented.
“Pay attention and take good notes – you never know what’s going to be important,” the juror said.
Most of the jurors agreed, from the start to finish, jury service is straight forward and easy to follow.
In recent years, the Court has implemented several initiatives to enhance the juror experience. The use of remote, case-specific questionnaires to prescreen jurors and updates to the Arizona Jury Fund, which reimburses eligible jurors up to $300 per day for lost wages, has reduced time spent at the courthouse and lessened financial hardship.
All Maricopa County residents are obligated by state law to serve as a juror, unless excused. When a person receives a summons in the mail, they are asked to visit the Maricopa County eJuror System.
Anyone who isn’t able to serve on the day they are scheduled to report for jury service is encouraged to communicate with the court. In some instances, the Jury Office may offer a postponement or a release. For individuals who ignore their jury summons or respond but fail to show, they may be required to appear before a judge and potentially fined.
The United States and Arizona Constitutions guarantee the right of trial by jury. Therefore, all Maricopa County residents who are 18 years or older, a U.S. citizen and have either never been convicted of a felony or have had their civil rights restored are eligible to serve on a jury. Citizens over 75 years of age may be excused from jury service by written request.