New program provides support for jurors feeling traumatized

REGINA From reviewing autopsy photos to hearing grisly details of horrific deaths, some jurors are left stressed and traumatized.

But starting Friday the province’s Juror Support Program is available to anyone experiencing difficulties related to serving as a juror on a criminal trial, civil trial, or coroner’s inquest.

“Over the last number of years … the jurors would come and they’re selected from a pool, and one of the reasons that jurors gave for not wanting to be there was the traumatic nature of it,” Justice Minister Don Morgan said Thursday in announcing the program.

Morgan said the Justice Ministry has budgeted $100,000 for the program, but that could change depending on demand.

Jurors can access up to four treatment sessions with a healthcare professional to help with personal difficulties related to their jury duty. Additional sessions may be approved if deemed appropriate. People can take advantage of the program up to two months after they complete jury service.

Upon recommendation of the service provider, approval for a spouse, life partner or family member may also be permitted. Professional counsellors will be available in 24 Saskatchewan communities — in keeping with court points. Counselling will take place in person wherever possible, although alternative methods of communication will be available for jurors in remote communities.

If longer term care is required, jurors will be referred to provincial health-care services.

Saskatchewan will now come into line with other provinces, including Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, B.C. and the Yukon, which have offered varying juror support programs for several years. A federal justice committee first recommended “psychological care” for jurors in 2009.

To access the Saskatchewan Juror Assistance and Support Program, jurors can call the toll-free number at 1-866-294-5035. Professional intake staff are available to assist 24/7 to connect jurors with counsellors in their area.