July is Juror Appreciation Month
July has been designated “Juror Appreciation Month” by the Michigan Supreme Court to celebrate the many Michigan citizens who serve as jurors each year and to encourage others to answer the call to jury service. Jury service is a duty of American citizenship. It is a high privilege and an opportunity to observe and participate in democracy in action.
In July of 2021, The Third Circuit Court resumed jury trials amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic. Since then, 6,045 dedicated Wayne County Residents appeared for service at the Civil and Criminal divisions of the Wayne County Third Circuit Court. Those jurors were given temperature checks and health screening upon entry of the building. They honored mask mandates and social distancing. Those jurors understood the importance of this duty and carried out the responsibilities of their citizenship. Many of them did so under these special circumstances and still found jury service to be a very rewarding and interesting experience. They understand that people whose cases come before juries are depending on their fellow citizen’s participation. The Third Circuit Court recognizes and appreciates our jurors for their dedication to the justice system every year with a special thank you to those that served during the COVID-19 pandemic!
Frequently Asked Questions about Jury Service
Why is jury service important?
The United States Constitution guarantees all people, regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, or economic status, the right to trial by an impartial jury. Justice ultimately depends to a large measure upon the quality of the jurors who serve in our courts.
What is my duty as a juror?
As a juror, you must be fair and impartial. Your actions and decisions must be free of any bias or prejudice. Your actions and decisions are the foundation of our judicial system.
Do I have to respond to the summons for jury service?
Yes. The summons to appear for jury service is an official court summons. If you do not respond, you could be held in contempt.
Will I be paid for being a juror?
Yes. During the pandemic, jurors are receiving hazard pay of $40.00 for the first day of service and $55.00 for any subsequent day of service plus .20 cents per mile traveled. The normal juror participation fee is $30.00 for the first day of service and $45.00 for each subsequent day plus .20 cents per mile traveled. Mileage will be computed from your current Wayne County zip code.
How are jurors selected?
Potential jurors are selected randomly from the State of Michigan driver's license and personal identification cardholder lists for individuals residing in Wayne County. The selection method is designed to produce a cross section of the community. Men and women over 18 years of age and from all walks of life have an equal opportunity to be called for jury service.
What if I no longer reside in Wayne County?
If you no longer reside in Wayne County, a request for excusal should be made in writing and mailed to the address that appears on your summons. Change of residency proof (license, house deed, etc.) must accompany your request for excusal. You will be notified by mail as to whether your request to be excused has been granted or denied.
How long am I on call for jury service?
Wayne County jury service is a "one day or one trial" term of service. If you are selected to serve on a trial, you will serve only for the duration of that one trial. The average length of a trial is three (3) or four (4) days. Jurors not selected or not involved in a continuing selection at the end of the day will complete their service at the end of the day that they report.
May I postpone jury service?
If you are not available on the date scheduled, you may request TWO POSTPONEMENTS.
May I request excusal?
A request to be excused MUST BE MADE IN WRITING and returned to the jury office within 10 days of receipt of the one-step form. The written request should include a statement of the facts you believe would prohibit you from serving along with supporting documentation, e.g., doctor's note, green card, driver's license for non-resident, etc. The written request should also include the juror ID number. The Jury Services Department may not excuse a juror for occupation or religion.
Contact information for postponements and excusals are as follows:
Mail:
Jury Services Department
301 Coleman A. Young Municipal Center
Two Woodward Avenue
Detroit, MI 48226-3452
Phone: (313) 224-2507
Fax: (313) 237-9203
Third Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan Jury Services
