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Thu, 26 Jun 2025 20:20:58 -0700
marlon from private IP, post #11001606
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Jury duty
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/2025/06/26/mcconico-jury-duty-is-a-civic-call-detroiters-cant-afford-to-ignore/84366762007/
McConico: Jury duty is a civic call Detroiters can’t afford to ignore
William McConico
You don’t have to dig deep into our country’s past to find examples of when the justice system failed its promise, especially that of a fair trial by a jury
of one’s peers.
Though the Sixth and Seventh Amendments were designed to prevent government overreach and ensure impartial trials, the reality was quite different for much of
our history. Black Americans and women were systematically excluded from juries, sometimes by official policy, often by willful neglect.
In 1986, the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Batson v. Kentucky made it unconstitutional to remove jurors based on race. Since then, research has
consistently shown juries that reflect their communities are not just more diverse, but fairer and more effective.
Chief Judge William McConico of the 36th District Court during a press conference announcing the drop in violent crime with fewer homicides since 1965, with
shooting and carjackings plummeting as well, at the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters in Detroit. Michigan on January 3, 2025.
But that progress is not guaranteed. Our city hosts the largest district court in the state, and one of the busiest in the country. Detroit is a majority-Black
city, and our court is frequently called “the people’s court.” Jury trials at 36th District Court have more than doubled since 2022. Yet, jury
participation is dropping. Last year, about 60% of those summoned reported for duty. This year, that number has fallen to 55%.
This is not unique to Detroit. A 2023 survey by the National Judicial College revealed that 59% of judges are worried about declining jury service nationwide.
Four major judicial organizations recently issued national guidance aimed at preserving jury participation and strengthening civic engagement.
There are many reasons why people don’t show up: financial strain, inconvenience or simply the assumption that jury duty doesn’t matter. While most people
still say they value jury service, younger generations in particular are disengaging.
But the truth is jury service is not just a civic obligation. It’s a rare opportunity to be part of a system that once excluded so many. When you sit on a
jury, you help ensure justice is rooted in community experience and perspective. You help provide balance in a courtroom. Your voice matters.
Serving on a jury allows Detroiters to shape the justice process with compassion, insight and accountability. Juries with community representation are more
likely to consider context, understand lived experience and reach fairer outcomes. They help ensure the courtroom reflects the people it serves.
We know that practical changes can help. At 36th District Court, jurors now receive $30 for the first day of service, and $45 for each additional day, plus $10
a day for parking and mileage. We also differ from other courts in that we issue payment in cash, which helps jurors avoid delays or processing fees that other
systems might impose.
We're also working to deepen long-term engagement. Our judges speak with community groups and students year-round, and we offer a hands-on internship program
for college students interested in law and public service.
Jury duty is one of the most powerful ways ordinary citizens can uphold fairness and accountability in our justice system. It is also a way to reclaim a role
that many Detroiters were denied for far too long.
So, the next time a jury summons arrives in your mailbox, I urge you not to toss it aside. By showing up, you’re not just helping decide one case. You’re
helping to uphold the integrity of justice for our entire city.
William C. McConico is Chief Judge of 36th District Court.
Thu, 26 Jun 2025 20:22:20 -0700
marlon from private IP
Reply #15544462
So, the next time a jury summons arrives in your mailbox, I urge you not to toss it aside.
gee, i was always afraid to do that. what can happen if u do?
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