CJS working together for the public

As a juror, you have been chosen at random from the electoral roll to serve on a jury - your job is to decide the outcome of a trial. You will be one of many people chosen for Jury Service and you have an opportunity to be involved in the legal system. As a juror, you'll be trying the more serious criminal cases such as theft, burglary, and drugs offences. Jurors also try cases involving murder and rape, but these cases are less common.

You might be needed to serve in a civil case such as libel, though this does not happen often. When it does, the trial will take place in the High Court or a county court. You might also be needed to serve in a coroner's court. You and the rest of your jury play an important part in a trial. There will be 12 of you on a jury, and your task is to consider the evidence and then reach a verdict of 'guilty' or 'not guilty'.

The 12 of you will be a cross-section of our society and will be asked to take an unbiased approach to the case to try to ensure that a fair trial takes place. Your summons tells you that you are legally required to serve on a jury. Please don't be worried by this - once most people get over the initial concern, they find jury service interesting and rewarding.

Some people do not qualify for jury service. Others may be eligible but can't make the dates for which they have been summoned. If you think this applies to you, you can ask to serve on a later date, that's called deferral. There are also groups of people in various professions and roles in society who can apply to be excused. You must reply to your summons within seven days of receiving it. After your reply has been received you will be sent more details about your jury service, including how to get to the court. It is important you tell employers and anyone else who might be affected by your absence well in advance of the start of your service.

Jury Service Booklet

You will find all the information you need to complete the summons form in this booklet.

Jury Summons pgs 1 & 2

You should keep this section and bring it with you when you start your jury service. It contains the details of where and when you should attend.

Jury Summons pgs 3 & 4

You need to complete the sections on these pages and return them to the Jury Central Summoning Bureau within 7 days of receiving the summons.