Jury Service

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The selection of a fair and impartial jury is the very cornerstone upon which the American justice system rests.  Every citizen shares equally in the civic duty to respond when summoned for jury service. 

Jurors complete one of the most important duties that can be asked of a citizen. They accept the high responsibility of sitting in judgment of the facts to determine the guilt or innocence of persons charged with crimes, or to resolve civil disputes.   

A Few Facts on Jury Service in the 19^th District Court

How are jurors selected in Dearborn?

Potential jurors are randomly selected from a computer generated list of eligible Dearborn residents provided to the Court by the Wayne County Jury Commission.

Who is eligible for jury duty?

Dearborn residents who are over 18 years of age, a US citizen and able to communicate in the English language.

Who is not eligible to serve as a juror?

Anyone who is not a U.S. Citizen.

Anyone who is not a resident of Dearborn.

Anyone who has been convicted of a felony (proof required).  A felony is a violation of a penal law of this state, another state, or the United States for which the offender, upon conviction, may be punished by death or by imprisonment for more than 1 year or an offense expressly designated as a felony.

Anyone who served as a petit or grand juror in a court of record during the preceding 12 months (proof required).  A person is considered to have served jury service if that person has been paid for jury service.

Who may request to be postponed or excused?

Persons over 70 years of age may claim exemption from jury service and will be excused upon making the request.

A resident may request postponement or excusal from jury service based upon a temporary or permanent medical condition that prohibits serving.   A person requesting medical accommodation must provide documentation from their doctor, written in lay terms that explains what the condition is, whether the conditions is temporary or permanent and why the condition prohibits jury service.  A brief note on a prescription form is not acceptable.

It is presumed that a naturalized US citizen is able to communicate in English as this is a condition for becoming a naturalized US citizen.  A request to be excused from service for inability to communicate in English is decided by the judge in the courtroom on the day of jury service; you must still appear.

What reasons do not work?

Vacations, work and child care issues are generally unacceptable reasons for not performing jury service.  Jury Administration will make reasonable efforts to accommodate residents who have timely and valid family, employment or vacation conflicts by re-scheduling them for future service.

What happens to those who do not show up?

Potential jurors who fail to appear when summoned to jury service may be held in contempt of court.

It is vitally important that if you have a conflict with serving when summoned that you contact Jury Administration at 943-4152 in advance of the day you are to appear.

Will the court provide a notice for prospective jurors' employers?

Yes.

Will reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act be made for prospective jurors requiring them? 

Yes.  A prospective juror requiring such accommodation should contact Jury Administration as soon as possible to discuss the accommodation sought.

How many citizens serve on a jury in Dearborn?

Local jury trials have six jurors.  In criminal cases, a unanimous decision is required to convict a defendant.  In civil cases a majority of five may render a verdict.

Are jurors paid?

State courts, like the 19th District Court, pay those called for jury selection and actual jury service $12.50 for a half-day session and $25.00 for a full day, plus mileage.

How can I get further information on jury service?

By calling (313) 943-4152.