Although you probably have misgivings, we want to assure you that your participation is the basis of our democratic system. We appreciate that you have made yourself available for possible selection as a juror.
Jurors are important and necessary participants in our justice system.
A jury panel that is ready to hear a case can motivate all parties involved in a dispute to reassess their risks and claims. You are asked to perform one of the highest duties that can be imposed on any citizen, and that is to sit in judgment of facts on cases which will resolve civil disputes or determine the guilt or innocence of persons charged with crimes. As a juror, your function is to listen to the evidence produced during the trial and decide the case on its merits, applying the judge's instructions, as opposed to deciding the case on sympathy or prejudice. Please understand, although most lawyers, prosecutors and judges are friendly folks, you may not have any private contact or conversations with them during the course of the trial. It is the Court's hope that these few introductory remarks will serve to put you at ease.