When You're Summoned For Jury Service
Different Types of Jury Service in New Jersey
Types of Jury Service
When summoned for Grand Jury service, know that you are called for a one-day selection. If selected for the Grand Jury, the subsequent scheduling will be determined.
You may be summoned for one of three types of jury service:
- Petit Juror
- Grand Juror
- State Grand Juror
Keep in mind that a New Jersey criminal trial court will only dismiss an indictment where the grand jury's decision was based on manifestly deficient or defective.
All defendants prosecuted for an indictable charge at the superior court level are granted the right to have their case presented to a grand jury pursuant to the New Jersey.
Jury Selection Process
Potential jurors complete questionnaires to weed out those unsuitable for jury service, including convicted felons.
Jurors are then called randomly from that pool.
Duration of Jury Duty in New Jersey
There are three levels of Jury Service each with different terms:
- Two days of jury selection at the courthouse
- Two weeks of trial (if selected)
- Four months of service (if selected for Grand Jury)
New Jersey has a statutory exemption that allows individuals over a certain age to request exemption from jury duty. Citizens over the age of 75 can be exempt from jury service.
COVID-19 Considerations
All jurors will first report online by video for orientation.
Jurors will be able to raise any general Covid-19 concerns before reporting in person.
Recent Case
A state grand jury has cleared a Pemberton Township police officer in connection with the fatal crash of a motorcyclist.
Legal Assistance
If you have questions about your rights as a juror, it is advisable to consult with an experienced legal professional.
Criminal Defense Attorney Michael Smolensky Esquire can provide consultations on cases regarding the right to a fair trial.
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