Jury Service General Information

Length of Service:

As a petit juror, you are on call for one week or service on one entire trial. While it may require some adjustments of your normal schedule to serve as a juror, we make it convenient for you to check on your juror status online or through a recorded message service. Please call 419-334-6160.

Your Jury Questionnaire:

At the beginning of a new jury term, you will receive a jury questionnaire in the mail. This document notifies you that you are on call for the entire term, which typically lasts four months. Receiving the questionnaire does not mean you must appear in court immediately—it simply places you on standby should you be selected for a trial during that term.

Your Jury Summons:

If you are selected to serve on a specific trial, you will receive a jury summons approximately two (2) weeks before the scheduled trial date. The summons provides the exact date and time you are required to report to court. You must bring the summons with you when you appear.

Your Compensation:

Compensation varies between counties and is set by the Board of County Commissioners. In Sandusky County, jurors receive $20.00 for appearing each day for serving. Your employer is required to give you time off from work to serve jury duty. Check with your personnel department to find out what your company policy is regarding Jury Duty Pay. Failure to appear as ordered may subject you to Contempt of Court (O.R.C. 2313.29 and 2313.30).

Your Attire:

Please use good judgment and report for jury duty properly dressed. Shorts, mini-skirts, tee shirts and tank tops are not appropriate attire.

Parking:

You may park in any of the parking lots near the courthouse.

Court Security:

To maintain proper security, all persons entering the courthouse (including courthouse employees) may be subject to search and screening. Bags, cases, and parcels may be searched.

The difference between Petit Jury and Grand Jury.

Petit Jury- listens to evidence offered during a trial and returns a verdict. Petit jurors decide whether a defendant is “guilty” or “not guilty” by a unanimous vote. Trials are generally open to the public, but jury deliberations are private.

Grand Jury- Does not appear in trial. Grand jurors listen to evidence presented by the prosecutor and determines from the evidence if sufficient probable cause exist for bringing formal criminal charges against an individual. Grand Jury proceedings are not open to the public.

Questions About Your Jury Service:

If you have any questions regarding your service, please call the Court Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Phone Number: 419-334-6175