By Doryn Danner Glenn “You have been summoned for jury service.” The feelings evoked when reading those words on an envelope pulled from the mailbox vary from person to person. Some are excited about the prospect of experiencing the court system in such a vital role. Others dread the thought of making a decision that … Continue Reading
The following article first appeared in the summer 2017 In Chambers magazine and is republished with permission. Serving on a jury—few understand the fundamental importance of jury service more than trial judges and appellate justices. But, how well do we communicate the significance or express our appreciation for those who are answering the summons to … Continue Reading
As Texas’ annual Jury Appreciation Week approaches in the first week of May, the State Bar of Texas wants to warn Texans about the proliferation of jury duty scams across the state in recent months. There have been widespread reports of scammers calling residents and accusing them of failing to show up for jury duty. … Continue Reading
By Kaci Singer As Texas celebrates its third annual Jury Appreciation Week starting today, we pause to honor those citizens who give of their time to participate in our judicial system. Jury Appreciation Week was created by the 84th Legislature and was first celebrated in 2016. To mark the occasion, the State Bar of Texas has … Continue Reading
On May 4, students from Alpine, Marathon, and Terlingua high schools were chosen as jurors to decide the fate of Luke Skywalker. When we last saw the Jedi knight, he was exiled on a seaside cliff—bearded and in a hooded robe like old Ben Kenobi. But unlike his Jedi Master, Skywalker, who famously fired the shot … Continue Reading
Over the years, I have become a huge advocate for and supporter of the jury system. After presiding over hundreds of jury trials I’ve concluded that juries tend to get it right. The collective wisdom of 12 or even six citizens is truly impressive; to use an old phrase, the sum is greater than its … Continue Reading
In Texas, the first days of May are celebrated as Jury Appreciation Week, a time to honor the service of those who give of their time to participate in the American judicial system. Created by the 84th Texas Legislature, the inaugural week kicked off last year. For this year’s festivities, the State Bar of Texas … Continue Reading
Editor’s Note: This information was originally published in the February 2005 issue of the Texas Bar Journal. The child age exemption was 10 at the time of publication; it has since been changed to 12. The information included in this column is for educational and informational purposes only. Please consult an attorney regarding specific legal … Continue Reading
As Texas celebrates its inaugural Jury Appreciation Week, we asked judges and district clerks across the state to describe why they believe jury service is important.… Continue Reading
Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared as a Client Page in the April 2012 issue of the Texas Bar Journal. The information included in this column is for educational and informational purposes only. Please consult an attorney regarding specific legal questions. For most people, a letter from their county clerk’s office containing a summons for … Continue Reading