Juror FAQs
Why are Jurors Important?
The right to a trial by jury is the privilege of every person in the United States, whether or not that person is a citizen. Both the United States and the Michigan State Constitutions guarantee this cherished right.
Jury trials cannot be held unless people, citizens of the community in which the trial is held, are willing to perform their civic duty. Jurors are essential to the administration of justice.
Being on a jury is a rewarding experience. You participation is greatly appreciated. This site has been designed to help answer questions that you may have regarding jury service.
How was I selected?
Potential jurors are selected randomly from the State of Michigan Driver’s License list and Personal Identification list for individuals residing in Genesee County. The selection method is designed to produce a cross section of the community.
What qualifies me to serve as a juror?
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- You must be a United States citizen
- You must be able to speak and understand the English language
- You must be a resident of Genesee County
- You must be 18 years or older
- You must be physically and mentally able to fulfill the functions of a juror
- You must not have been convicted of a felony
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If you believe you are not qualified to serve as a juror, please complete your questionnaire online at the eresponse website. Once complete a request will automatically be submitted to the Jury Management Office for disqualification if you do not meet the criteria listed above.
If you are required to submit further documentation for your disqualification, please submit the documents by email, jury@7thCircuitCourt.com or by fax to 810-257-3531. The Jury Management Office will contact you once they have processed your request.
What if I am over 70?
A person 70 years of age or older may claim exemption from jury service and shall be exempt upon making the request.
What if I have a medical reason that would prevent me from serving on jury duty?
In order to be excused for medical reasons you must complete the juror qualification questionnaire online at the eresponse website and submit a medical note from a physician (MD or DO) to the Jury Management Office.
You can submit your note by email, jury@7thCircuitCourt.com, or by fax to (810)257-3531.
Your request for excusal will not be considered without this medical note.
What if I am a student?
Full time students may reschedule to a date either on a break between semesters; or, during the summer months. However, you must provide a copy of your school schedule.
You must complete the juror qualification questionnaire online at eresponse website. Upon completion of your questionnaire you will be redirected to the home page where you will have the option to defer your service.
If you are a parent/guardian of a student, please contact your student and provide them with the information on their court order so that they may complete the questionnaire themselves. Parents/guardians are not allowed to complete the questionnaire as this is a legal order.
What if there are severe or harsh weather conditions or some other unforeseen emergency?
In the event of these conditions, the jury staff will notify you of the reporting instructions.
Can I defer my jury service to a more convenient time?
Yes. If you are unavailable on the date scheduled due to an extreme hardship, financial or otherwise, you may reschedule your jury service (one time) to a date up to four (4) months from the date on your summons.
You must complete the juror questionnaire online at eresponse.co.genesee.mi.us. Upon completion of your questionnaire you will be redirected to the home page where you will have the option to defer your service.
No excuses from jury service are allowed based on occupation.
What other information should I know about jury service?
If you are to report, we suggest you bring reading materials to pass the time while awaiting assignment to a courtroom.
Cell Phones/Electronics: Jurors are permitted to bring cell phones or other electronic devices on their dates of service with presentation of a valid summons. Use of cell phones and other electronic devices may be restricted in the courtroom.
Lunch Breaks: Jurors have at least one hour for lunch.
Vending machines are located in the jury management area. Complimentary coffee and tea are provided.
Attire: Business casual is the minimum dress standard for jurors. Because temperatures vary in courtrooms and the assembly room, it is recommended to dress in layers. Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate.
Where should I park?
What is the compensation for jury service?
1st day of service 4.5 hours or more $30.00
2nd day of service 4.5 hours or less $22.50
2nd day of service 4.5 hours or more $45.00
Round trip mileage compensated @.20 per mile.
What if I fail to appear for jury service?
A juror who is summoned and, willfully and without reasonable excuse, fails to appear for jury service may be found to be in contempt of court and subject to penalties provided by law.
If you failed to appear on the date summoned, contact the jury management office @810.257.3285 or by email jury@7thcircuitcourt.com and explain your situation.
Should delays be expected in jury service?
On occasion, jurors complain about an unexplained delay during jury selection or trial.
Often, a case may entail meetings or conferences between the attorneys or the attorneys and the judge. This would involve matters that the jury is not required to consider, but may be important to the case. These events may arise unexpectedly and cannot be planned for in advance.
In some instances, a case may be resolved without a trial. If this occurs, no jury is required. This is sometimes unpredictable and may negate the need for your services as a juror.
Your presence may have accelerated this result. Even without direct participation, you will have played a vital role in our legal system.
Please be aware of these issues as we try to make your jury service educational, efficient and designed to achieve a fair and just outcome for all.