District Court Jury Duty Information
Welcome to jury duty at Thurston County District Court. The information below will explain what jury duty is all about, describe the process, and let you
know what the Court is doing to keep you safe during the pandemic.
COVID-19 Precautions and Jury Duty
District Court is committed to keeping jurors as safe as possible during the pandemic. To do this, we have implemented several measures described below.
You may also read the Court's full COVID-19 response plan.
Prior to Service / Summons
Jurors at high risk for COVID-19 may request to be rescheduled for or excused from jury service. To do so, please contact the jury administrator not more than ten (10) days before your scheduled report day. For excusals or to reschedule, call 360-754-4107 or send an email to the jury administrator.
Orientation and Jury Selection
Jury orientation and jury selection will occur remotely. Current advice from health professionals is to limit your interactions with other people as much as possible. By conducting jury orientation and jury selection remotely, you can appear from your home or other private space and will have to come to the courthouse only if you are selected for a jury. If you can't appear remotely for any reason, call the court at 360-786-5450 or send an email to DistrictCourtJury@co.thurston.wa.us and we will make arrangements for you to appear from the courtroom.
Trial Day
To keep jurors safe during trial, each day will begin with a health screening questionnaire to ensure up to date reporting.
Each juror will receive a high grade face mask to wear throughout the trial. Everyone in the courtroom will be masked unless an individual meets an exception listed in the the Washington Department of Health (DOH) face-covering directive. Witnesses might remove their masks during testimony if the judge allows, but they will be more than six feet from any one else in the courtroom and will be behind plexiglass barriers.
Jurors will be issued a tablet on which they will view evidence so that documents are not passed from hand to hand. Any evidence which cannot be digitized will be wiped clean with antiseptic wipes between jurors.
Jurors will be seated at least 6 feet from other jurors and anyone else in the courtroom. Jurors will have assigned seats in the jury box.
Throughout the day, cleaning staff will disinfect high touch areas in the courtroom. Deep cleaning will be completed at the end of each trial day. Hand sanitizer and wipes are available in the courtroom and hand sanitizer stations are available in the lobby.
Jury Room
The jury room allows for jurors to sit at least 6 feet from one another during trial recesses. In the jury room, jurors may briefly remove their masks only when drinking. Jurors are encouraged to leave the building during the lunch break. Jurors will use the same seat in the jury room throughout the trial. Hand sanitizer and wipes are available.
Deliberations
Because deliberations involve ongoing discussion and can last up to several hours, once the jury goes into deliberations, the courtroom will be cleared and tables will be moved into the courtroom so jurors may deliberate in a large space.
Prior to Service / Summons
Jurors at high risk for COVID-19 may request to be rescheduled for or excused from jury service. To do so, please contact the jury administrator not more than ten (10) days before your scheduled report day. For excusals or to reschedule, call 360-754-4107 or send an email to the jury administrator.
Orientation and Jury Selection
Jury orientation and jury selection will occur remotely. Current advice from health professionals is to limit your interactions with other people as much as possible. By conducting jury orientation and jury selection remotely, you can appear from your home or other private space and will have to come to the courthouse only if you are selected for a jury. If you can't appear remotely for any reason, call the court at 360-786-5450 or send an email to DistrictCourtJury@co.thurston.wa.us and we will make arrangements for you to appear from the courtroom.
Trial Day
To keep jurors safe during trial, each day will begin with a health screening questionnaire to ensure up to date reporting.
Each juror will receive a high grade face mask to wear throughout the trial. Everyone in the courtroom will be masked unless an individual meets an exception listed in the the Washington Department of Health (DOH) face-covering directive. Witnesses might remove their masks during testimony if the judge allows, but they will be more than six feet from any one else in the courtroom and will be behind plexiglass barriers.
Jurors will be issued a tablet on which they will view evidence so that documents are not passed from hand to hand. Any evidence which cannot be digitized will be wiped clean with antiseptic wipes between jurors.
Jurors will be seated at least 6 feet from other jurors and anyone else in the courtroom. Jurors will have assigned seats in the jury box.
Throughout the day, cleaning staff will disinfect high touch areas in the courtroom. Deep cleaning will be completed at the end of each trial day. Hand sanitizer and wipes are available in the courtroom and hand sanitizer stations are available in the lobby.
Jury Room
The jury room allows for jurors to sit at least 6 feet from one another during trial recesses. In the jury room, jurors may briefly remove their masks only when drinking. Jurors are encouraged to leave the building during the lunch break. Jurors will use the same seat in the jury room throughout the trial. Hand sanitizer and wipes are available.
Deliberations
Because deliberations involve ongoing discussion and can last up to several hours, once the jury goes into deliberations, the courtroom will be cleared and tables will be moved into the courtroom so jurors may deliberate in a large space.
How to Appear for Jury Duty in District Court
District Court jury orientation and jury selection will be held remotely using Zoom. You can use any device to appear via Zoom - laptop, tablet or phone.
Meeting ID: 824 663 3203
Passcode: i7B9rj
Prior to jury orientation, you need to have completed the jury questionnaire. You received instructions with the original summons on how to do this. If you haven't completed the questionnaire yet, click here and complete it now.
- Click the link below to access Zoom
- When promopted, you will need to enter the meeting ID and password shown below
- Click the "Join with video" button; if you do not have camera capabilites ontact the Court as soon as possible by calling 360-709-5010 or 360-786-5450
Meeting ID: 824 663 3203
Passcode: i7B9rj
Prior to jury orientation, you need to have completed the jury questionnaire. You received instructions with the original summons on how to do this. If you haven't completed the questionnaire yet, click here and complete it now.
When you zoom in for jury selection, please remember the following rules:
- This is court and proper decorum and respect is expected.
- You need to be in a place where you can focus on the screen without distractions.
- You need to be alone and not disturbed during the entire jury selection process. No pets, no children, no other household members or friends.
- You need to have any virtual background turned off, and you should not have any personal items behind you that might disclose information about you.
Forms to Complete for Jury Duty
If you have not yet completed the juror questionnaire you were directed to with your summons, please use this link to do so before zooming in for jury selection: Jury Questionnaire
If you are picked for the jury, please complete the health screening questionnaire before reporting for jury duty.
Please complete this juror pay form to receive or to waive your jury pay.
Common Questions about Jury Duty
Trial by jury is a right guaranteed by the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Washington. We hope you find this honorable service rewarding.
How was I chosen for jury duty? First, your name was selected at random from voter registration and driver's license and "identicard" records. Then, your answers to the juror questionnaire were evaluated to make sure you were eligible for jury service. You were chosen because you are eligible and able to serve. You are now part of the "jury pool" — a group of citizens from which trial juries are chosen.
Who is eligible for jury duty? To be eligible for jury service, you must be at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, a resident of the county in which you are to serve as a juror, and you must be able to communicate in English. If you have ever been convicted of a felony, you must have had your civil rights restored.
Do I have to respond to the jury summons? RCW 2.36.170 states, "A person summoned for jury service who intentionally fails to appear as directed shall be guilty of a misdemeanor." Please respond to your summons. The justice system in Washington State cannot function without citizens willing to serve on jury duty. As one juror said, "if everyone tried to dodge jury duty, then what?"
How do I reschedule jury duty? Look at your jury summons form. There will be a telephone number to call, or an address to which you can write, so that you may request that your service is rescheduled, if necessary, to a more convenient time.
Who can be excused from serving? Those eligible may be excused from jury service if they have illnesses that would interfere with their ability to do a good job, would suffer unusual hardship if required to serve, or are unable to serve for other legitimate reasons. People at high risk for COVID-19 may also be excused. Call the jury administrator at (360) 754-4107 to ask about being excused.
What if I have a disability? For disability accommodation, contact the jury administrator at (360) 754-4107.
What if I am caring for a dependent child or adult? We would appreciate it if you would reschedule your jury service to another date when you can make necessary care arrangements rather than asking to be excused. Contact the jury administrator at (360) 754-4107 to reschedule your service.
What about my job? Washington law says employers, "shall provide an employee with sufficient leave of absence from employment when that employee is summoned" for jury duty. It also says employers, "shall not deprive an employee of employment or threaten, coerce, or harass an employee or deny an employee promotional opportunities" for serving as a juror. It does not say your employer has to pay you while you serve.
How much do jurors get paid? Thurston County pays jurors $10 per day. Jurors are also eligible for mileage reimbursement.
How long does jury duty last? District Court jurors will participate in juror orientation and jury selection remotely on their first day of jury duty. If seated, you will come to court the second day for the actual trial. District Court trials usually last only one day, but sometimes run into a second day. Once you have served on one trial, you are excused for the rest of the week.
You may be surprised by how much waiting you have to do. For example, you may have to wait before you are placed on a jury. During the trial, you may have to wait in the jury room while the judge and the lawyers settle questions of law. Judges and other courtroom personnel will do everything they can to minimize the waiting both before and during the trial. Your understanding is appreciated.
What should I wear? Dress comfortably. Suits, ties, and other, more formal wear are not necessary. But don’t get too informal-beach wear, shorts, halter or tank tops are not appropriate in court. Hats may not be allowed unless worn for religious or medical purposes. It's a good idea to bring a sweater, just in case.
What can I bring with me to jury duty? The ideal item to bring with you is a book or a magazine, although sometimes the court will restrict newspapers or magazines containing information that may relate to an upcoming trial. Because security is taken very seriously, everyday items like penknives, knitting needles, scissors, or metal nail files cannot be brought into the Court.
Might I be called but not sit on a jury? Yes. Sometimes parties in a case settle their differences only moments before the trial is scheduled to begin. In such instances, you will be excused with the thanks of the court.
What happens if I'm late? As the trial cannot proceed until all jurors are present, it is important that you are on time. If you are unavoidably delayed, please call the court at 360-786-5450 as soon as you know you will be late.
What if I have an emergency? Because your absence could delay a trial, it is important that you report each day you are required to. If a real emergency occurs — a sudden illness, accident, or death in the family, call the court at 360-786-5450 as soon as you can.
Can I go home during the trial? Yes. District Court does not sequester juries. But remember, you cannot discuss the case with anyone or do any research on the case.
Will I be searched when I come to the courthouse? You will have to empty your pockets and place your personal items in a bucket, then walk through a metal detector. If you can't go through the detector, let the court security officer on duty know and they will help you.
How long does a trial usually take? Most District Court trials last one day; sometimes, they will last for two.
What type of case might I hear? Jury cases are either criminal or civil, but most of them are criminal.
A criminal case is brought by the city or county against one or more persons accused of committing a crime. In these cases, the city or county is the plaintiff; the accused person is the defendant.
A civil case is brought by an individual or a corporation agaainst another for monetary damages.
What happens during a trial? Events in a trial usually happen in a particular order, though the order may be changed by the judge. The standard order of events begins with jury orientation and the selection of the jury on the first day. These occur remotely so you can participate from your home or other location, including the courthouse. The second date is the actual trial at the courthouse. That day you will hear opening statements, presentation of evidence, jury instructions, and closing arguments. Then your will deliberate and, once a verdict is reached, the foreperson will announce the verdict in court. Sentencing may or may not occur that same day, but you are welcome to watch that if you are interested.
What happens during jury selection? The judge will tell you about the case, then introduce the lawyers and others who are involved in it. You will also take an oath, in which you will promise to answer all questions truthfully. After you're sworn in, the judge and the lawyers will question you and other members of the panel to find out if you have any knowledge about the case, any personal interest in it, or any feelings that might make it hard for you to be impartial. This questioning process is called voir dire, which means "to speak the truth." Though some of the questions may seem personal, you should answer them completely and honestly. If you are uncomfortable answering them, tell the judge. Questions are not asked to embarrass you. They are intended to make sure members of the jury have no opinions or past experiences which might prevent them from making an impartial decision.
In District Court, jury selection is conducted remotely. See "How to Appear for Remote Jury Orientation" on this page for more information on this.
What is the role of the juror? Your job as a juror is to listen to all the evidence presented at trial, then decide the facts. The judge's job is to decide the law and make decisions on legal issues that come up during the trial. You do not need special knowledge or ability to do your job. It is enough that you keep an open mind, use common sense, concentrate on the evidence presented, and be fair and honest in your deliberations. Remember, don't be influenced by sympathy, prejudice, or personal preference. It is vital that you be impartial with regard to all testimony and ideas presented at the trial.
What are alternate jurors? One additional juror is chosen (the "alternate") in the event that any members of the jury are unable to complete the trial for some reason. Alternate jurors participate in the trial proceedings but do not take part in deliberations unless they have been called to replace members of the jury.
Can I take notes during the trial? Yes, you may take notes in all trials if you wish. The judge will explain the procedure.
Can I ask the witnesses questions during the trial? In civil trials, you may propose questions for the witness. In criminal trials, you may only propose questions for the witness if the judge gives you permission. The judge will explain the procedure.
How was I chosen for jury duty? First, your name was selected at random from voter registration and driver's license and "identicard" records. Then, your answers to the juror questionnaire were evaluated to make sure you were eligible for jury service. You were chosen because you are eligible and able to serve. You are now part of the "jury pool" — a group of citizens from which trial juries are chosen.
Who is eligible for jury duty? To be eligible for jury service, you must be at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, a resident of the county in which you are to serve as a juror, and you must be able to communicate in English. If you have ever been convicted of a felony, you must have had your civil rights restored.
Do I have to respond to the jury summons? RCW 2.36.170 states, "A person summoned for jury service who intentionally fails to appear as directed shall be guilty of a misdemeanor." Please respond to your summons. The justice system in Washington State cannot function without citizens willing to serve on jury duty. As one juror said, "if everyone tried to dodge jury duty, then what?"
How do I reschedule jury duty? Look at your jury summons form. There will be a telephone number to call, or an address to which you can write, so that you may request that your service is rescheduled, if necessary, to a more convenient time.
Who can be excused from serving? Those eligible may be excused from jury service if they have illnesses that would interfere with their ability to do a good job, would suffer unusual hardship if required to serve, or are unable to serve for other legitimate reasons. People at high risk for COVID-19 may also be excused. Call the jury administrator at (360) 754-4107 to ask about being excused.
What if I have a disability? For disability accommodation, contact the jury administrator at (360) 754-4107.
What if I am caring for a dependent child or adult? We would appreciate it if you would reschedule your jury service to another date when you can make necessary care arrangements rather than asking to be excused. Contact the jury administrator at (360) 754-4107 to reschedule your service.
What about my job? Washington law says employers, "shall provide an employee with sufficient leave of absence from employment when that employee is summoned" for jury duty. It also says employers, "shall not deprive an employee of employment or threaten, coerce, or harass an employee or deny an employee promotional opportunities" for serving as a juror. It does not say your employer has to pay you while you serve.
How much do jurors get paid? Thurston County pays jurors $10 per day. Jurors are also eligible for mileage reimbursement.
How long does jury duty last? District Court jurors will participate in juror orientation and jury selection remotely on their first day of jury duty. If seated, you will come to court the second day for the actual trial. District Court trials usually last only one day, but sometimes run into a second day. Once you have served on one trial, you are excused for the rest of the week.
You may be surprised by how much waiting you have to do. For example, you may have to wait before you are placed on a jury. During the trial, you may have to wait in the jury room while the judge and the lawyers settle questions of law. Judges and other courtroom personnel will do everything they can to minimize the waiting both before and during the trial. Your understanding is appreciated.
What should I wear? Dress comfortably. Suits, ties, and other, more formal wear are not necessary. But don’t get too informal-beach wear, shorts, halter or tank tops are not appropriate in court. Hats may not be allowed unless worn for religious or medical purposes. It's a good idea to bring a sweater, just in case.
What can I bring with me to jury duty? The ideal item to bring with you is a book or a magazine, although sometimes the court will restrict newspapers or magazines containing information that may relate to an upcoming trial. Because security is taken very seriously, everyday items like penknives, knitting needles, scissors, or metal nail files cannot be brought into the Court.
Might I be called but not sit on a jury? Yes. Sometimes parties in a case settle their differences only moments before the trial is scheduled to begin. In such instances, you will be excused with the thanks of the court.
What happens if I'm late? As the trial cannot proceed until all jurors are present, it is important that you are on time. If you are unavoidably delayed, please call the court at 360-786-5450 as soon as you know you will be late.
What if I have an emergency? Because your absence could delay a trial, it is important that you report each day you are required to. If a real emergency occurs — a sudden illness, accident, or death in the family, call the court at 360-786-5450 as soon as you can.
Can I go home during the trial? Yes. District Court does not sequester juries. But remember, you cannot discuss the case with anyone or do any research on the case.
Will I be searched when I come to the courthouse? You will have to empty your pockets and place your personal items in a bucket, then walk through a metal detector. If you can't go through the detector, let the court security officer on duty know and they will help you.
How long does a trial usually take? Most District Court trials last one day; sometimes, they will last for two.
What type of case might I hear? Jury cases are either criminal or civil, but most of them are criminal.
A criminal case is brought by the city or county against one or more persons accused of committing a crime. In these cases, the city or county is the plaintiff; the accused person is the defendant.
A civil case is brought by an individual or a corporation agaainst another for monetary damages.
What happens during a trial? Events in a trial usually happen in a particular order, though the order may be changed by the judge. The standard order of events begins with jury orientation and the selection of the jury on the first day. These occur remotely so you can participate from your home or other location, including the courthouse. The second date is the actual trial at the courthouse. That day you will hear opening statements, presentation of evidence, jury instructions, and closing arguments. Then your will deliberate and, once a verdict is reached, the foreperson will announce the verdict in court. Sentencing may or may not occur that same day, but you are welcome to watch that if you are interested.
What happens during jury selection? The judge will tell you about the case, then introduce the lawyers and others who are involved in it. You will also take an oath, in which you will promise to answer all questions truthfully. After you're sworn in, the judge and the lawyers will question you and other members of the panel to find out if you have any knowledge about the case, any personal interest in it, or any feelings that might make it hard for you to be impartial. This questioning process is called voir dire, which means "to speak the truth." Though some of the questions may seem personal, you should answer them completely and honestly. If you are uncomfortable answering them, tell the judge. Questions are not asked to embarrass you. They are intended to make sure members of the jury have no opinions or past experiences which might prevent them from making an impartial decision.
In District Court, jury selection is conducted remotely. See "How to Appear for Remote Jury Orientation" on this page for more information on this.
What is the role of the juror? Your job as a juror is to listen to all the evidence presented at trial, then decide the facts. The judge's job is to decide the law and make decisions on legal issues that come up during the trial. You do not need special knowledge or ability to do your job. It is enough that you keep an open mind, use common sense, concentrate on the evidence presented, and be fair and honest in your deliberations. Remember, don't be influenced by sympathy, prejudice, or personal preference. It is vital that you be impartial with regard to all testimony and ideas presented at the trial.
What are alternate jurors? One additional juror is chosen (the "alternate") in the event that any members of the jury are unable to complete the trial for some reason. Alternate jurors participate in the trial proceedings but do not take part in deliberations unless they have been called to replace members of the jury.
Can I take notes during the trial? Yes, you may take notes in all trials if you wish. The judge will explain the procedure.
Can I ask the witnesses questions during the trial? In civil trials, you may propose questions for the witness. In criminal trials, you may only propose questions for the witness if the judge gives you permission. The judge will explain the procedure.