I do not know the law, how can I be a juror?

Jurors do not need to know the law. The juror must be able to reach conclusions about each aspect of the case based on the juror's own impartial and independent recollection of the evidence and then apply the laws as the judge explains them. To do this a juror must pay attention and listen closely to the evidence presented in Court. You must not make snap decisions or pre-judge but wait until the attorneys have completed their cases. Then the jury should consider the evidence and determine the facts of the case. The judge will instruct the jury as to what laws apply to the case and what they mean.

Show All Answers

1. Who may serve?
2. How was I selected?
3. Why is jury service important?
4. Who is entitled to a jury trial?
5. What are my duties as a juror?
6. How long does jury service usually last if I am selected?
7. Will I be paid for Jury Duty?
8. What if I have an emergency during Jury Duty?
9. How are trial juries selected?
10. Why are there delays in the jury process?
11. Will I have to stay overnight?
12. What is the difference between a Grand Jury and a Petit Jury?
13. I do not know the law, how can I be a juror?
14. What is the definition of a civil case?
15. What is the definition of a criminal case?
16. How is a jury chosen?
17. I recently moved out of the County, but I haven’t had a chance to turn in my driver’s license or voter registration card. Can I still serve?
18. What is the difference between deferred, disqualified and excused?
19. I have a prior felony conviction. Can I still serve?
20. Is there a quiet room without televisions where I can get some work done?
21. What should I wear?
22. Does the Court provide child care?
23. Can I use my cellular phone? How about a laptop computer?
24. I may have trouble hearing the proceedings in the courtroom. What should I do?
25. Where can I store my personal belongings?
26. My employer requires written confirmation that I attended jury duty. Where can I obtain this documentation?
27. How will I get paid during my service?
28. What if I am selected for a trial and then experience an emergency that prevents me from coming to the courthouse?
29. What time is lunch?
30. What normally happens the day my Jury Service begins?
31. How can I be excused from jury service?
32. What is the Juror Information Systems?
33. What laws govern the Jury System in Illinois?
34. My juror debit card is lost. Who do I contact?
35. How Do I Know When To Report?