Frequently Asked Questions

How are jurors chosen? They are chosen randomly from a list provided by the Secretary of State of Livingston County licensed drivers and state identification cards.  They are picked by a computer program designed by the Supreme Court in accordance with the law regarding jurors.  No, we do not go through lists and pick out who we want on a jury.

How much do I get paid for jury service?  Jurors are paid $25.00 per full day and $12.50 per half day for reporting for jury selection.  If a juror is selected for a jury, for each subsequent day they are paid $20.00 per half day and $40 per full day. Mileage is also paid.

Do I have to take two weeks* off from work to serve on a jury?
Jurors are required to serve a 2-week term.  During this term, jurors are required to contact the Jury Commission by telephone for instructions.  If your juror number is called, the recording will inform you when, where, and what time to appear for jury selection.  If no jury is required, you will be advised when to call again for further instructions.  You may phone the recording any time between the hours of 5:30 p.m. through 8:00 a.m. Jurors are required to wear proper attire while attending court for jury selection.

*Note:  Approximately two times a year we will have a three-week term.

What if I just don't show up? You can be charged with contempt of court for failure to abide by a jury summons.

Can I have someone else come in my place?  No.  The law does not allow that.  Jurors must be chosen randomly.

Can I apply for a court-appointed attorney by phone?   No.  You are required to appear in person and sign a petition.

Can I choose my own court-appointed attorney?  No.  The attorneys are working under contracts with the county.  The cases are assigned according to the provisions of the contracts.  If all the public defenders are disqualified for some reason, the office has a list of attorneys who handle conflict cases, which we rotate.

What if I cannot afford even the minimal fee? You must ask the judge to waive the fee.  This office cannot waive fees without an order from the judge.

Can I adjourn case evaluation? Perhaps, but not through this office.  You must contact the judges' assignment clerks for adjournments.

Can we choose our own case evaluators? No.  *

*Note:  In one-person mediation, the parties are encouraged to agree upon a mediator.

Why do I have to pay the fee even though case evaluation was adjourned or the case was settled?  Because the Case Evaluators cleared their whole day for case evaluation.