Circuit Clerk urges public to return juror questionnaires

St. Francis County Clerk Bette Green is urging those who have received juror questionnaires to return them to her office as soon as possible.

Green said the holidays seem to have caused a slow response to the questionnaires, which were sent out in early December.

According to Green’s office, 300 questionnaires were sent out in December, and as of last week, only about 100 had been returned.

Jury orientation is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 6, beginning at 8:30 a.m., with First Judicial District Circuit Court Judge Christopher Morledge presiding.

“These people will be our first jury pool of 2022 and will serve from January through April,” said Green. “We understand that people are busy during the holidays, but it only takes a few minutes to fill out the questionnaire. It is very important that everyone who has received a questionnaire return them to our office before Jan. 6, by either mailing them our dropping it off at our office in the courthouse.”

Green said she understands that many people want to avoid jury duty, but it is an essential part of the justice system.

“It is their civic duty to respond to the questionnaires. Jurors make it possible for justice to be served in our county. Orientation helps explain the importance of jury duty and will make them familiar with the way court is conducted,” said Green.

Those who receive juror questionnaires but do not respond are subject to a warrant being issued by the SFC Sheriff’s Department. Only the judge can excuse someone from jury service.

“If you have any questions, please call us at 261-1715,” added Green.