* Precautions taken by court for safety of Jurors*

JUROR FAQ's

Skamania County Superior Court understands and appreciates that jury duty can be inconvenient. But, jurors are an indispensable part of our system of justice. We are grateful for your willingness to serve as jurors. We hope you will find the experience to be rewarding. Jury service is an essential element of our American judicial system. Trial by jury is provided as a constitutional right. Jury service is one of the privileges of citizenship in the United States. Jurors do not need any special skills or legal knowledge. You do, however, need to be able to set aside personal feelings and biases and be willing to keep an open mind before making a decision. A fair and impartial trial and the rendition of a just verdict depend upon the combined efforts of the jurors, the judge, and the lawyers. Thank you for doing your civic duty.

Juror Orientation Video

Term of Service

The Courts' days of operations (excluding Federal Holidays) are Mondays through Fridays. If seated or empaneled on a trial, jurors serve until the end of that trial. Trials typically last between 1 to 3 days. However, you will still be eligible for juror service in cases of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances to be called again within the same month. Should this happen the Jury Manager will call you and inform you when to report.

Call in Procedure

The court uses a call in system with a recorded message to inform you if your service will be required. Please see the Clerk’s webpage for instructions on when to call in and the number.

Jury Panel Selection RCW 2.36.080

It is the policy of this state that all persons selected for jury service be selected at random from a fair cross section of the population of the area served by the court, and that all qualified citizens have the opportunity in accordance with chapter 135, Laws of 1979 ex. sess. to be considered for jury service in this state and have an obligation to serve as jurors when summoned for that purpose.

To qualify for jury duty, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be a resident of Skamania County
• Be able to communicate in the English language
• Not been convicted of a felony or if convicted, have your rights restored and be able to submit proof

What to expect during check in and Jury Selection

All bags and cell phones will need to be locked in your vehicle or in a locker near the jury room upon check in. No cell phone access will be available unless supervised by a Bailiff.

Water is allowed in the courtroom, all other beverages are prohibited.

No food is allowed in the courtroom unless a special request is made for medical reasons.