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Jury FAQs

  • Why do I have to provide information about my race and gender?

    Federal law requires a prospective juror to indicate his/her race to help ensure that discrimination does not occur during the juror selection. Race and gender have no bearing in determining your eligibility to serve as a juror.

  • I received a questionnaire for a deceased person or a person who is no longer a resident of the Middle District of Pennsylvania, what should I do?

    If you receive a summons and a questionnaire for a deceased person or a person who is no longer a resident of the Middle District of Pennsylvania, please make a notation in the "Remark Section" on the questionnaire and return to the court in the postage free envelope.

  • What about emergencies?

    It is important that jurors promptly report to the courthouse when they are required. Absences may delay or even jeopardize trials. Jurors faced with an emergency such as a sudden illness or death in the family, should follow the instructions that they were given by the Court. If they are unable to do so, they should telephone the jury staff in the divisions where their jury service is to take place.
    In addition, if there is an emergency and someone needs to contact you during your service, they may call the jury staff in the division where your jury service is to take place and a message will be delivered to you promptly. Please have them specify that you are on jury duty.

  • What happens if I don’t appear?

    Jury service is both an obligation and a privilege. Your fellow citizens need your assistance. Most individuals who have served on a jury find it to be an informative and rewarding experience.

    Federal law provides that persons who fail to appear as directed for jury service shall be ordered to appear in court and show cause for failure to comply with the summons. Any person who fails to appear pursuant to such order or who fails to show good cause for noncompliance with the summons may be fined up to $1,000.00, imprisoned not more than three days, ordered to perform community service, or any combination thereof.

  • How do I get to the courthouse and where do I park?

    For directions and parking information, please select the desired courthouse location from the options at the top left of this page.

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