FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

JURY INFORMATION 

What list are jurors’ names drawn from?

This Court summons jurors from the list of registered voters in the county.  However, Ohio law allows for jurors to be summoned from the list of registered voters in the county or jurors may be summoned from a combined list of registered voters and licensed drivers in the county.

What is the difference between a Petit Juror and Grand Juror?

A grand juror decides whether a person should be placed on trial for a criminal offense.  A petit juror decides if the defendant is guilty or not guilty in a criminal trial.  In a civil trial, the petit jury will decide the facts which are in dispute.

How long will I be reporting for jury duty?

 You may be selected for a term of four months.  Usually, a juror is only called one time during the term.  The average trial length is two to three days.  Some jury trials last longer.

How do I know when to report?

 You will receive a summons in the mail telling you the exact date and time to report.

I have a medical and/or work problem and can’t serve jury duty.  What do I need to do?

 Pick up and complete a juror’s excuse form from the Clerk of Court’s Office, located on the third floor of the courthouse.  If you have a physician’s medical excuse, bring that with you to attach to the excuse form.  Generally, work or employment is not sufficient to get excused.  The judge will review your request and you will be notified of his decision.

I can’t serve as a juror at this time of the year.  Can I serve later in the year?

 Depending on the circumstances, the judge may allow you to serve later in the year.

What are the Court’s requirements for a juror?

 You must be a resident and registered voter of Shelby County who is at least eighteen years of age, who has never been convicted of a felony.

Where do I park?

 You may park around the courthouse square.  You will receive a parking pass in the mail with your summons if serving on a particular day.

My employer needs a letter telling when I will serve and how much I will be paid for jury service.  Where do I get the letter?

 The Clerk of Court’s Office, which is located on the third floor of the Shelby County Courthouse, will provide you with the letter.

GENERAL INFORMATION