NCJ Number
91245
Journal
Judicature Volume: 67 Issue: 2 Dated: (August 1983) Pages: 78-86
Date Published
1983
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This study of the Wayne County Circuit Court's (Michigan) one day/one trial jury system found that it avoids the inconvenience and expense of long terms, helps achieve more representative juries, and enhances citizen respect for the courts.
Abstract
Under the one day/one trial jury system, instead of being summoned to serve lengthy terms of 30 days or more, jurors not selected to hear a case on the day on which they are summoned are excused. Those chosen for a jury panel serve only for the duration of that one trial. After learning of the successful use of this system in Harris County District Court (Texas), the Wayne County Circuit Court applied to the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to underwrite a project for the further development of this shortened jury term. A study after 1 year of operation reviewed information from over 5,500 jurors, including responses from jurors who had served the 30-day term as well as from those called under the one day/one trial system. Just over 90 percent of respondents selected the one day/one trial period as preferable to a 30-day term, and a majority would not object to being called again. Also, instead of a preponderance of retirees, unemployed persons, and housewives, panel composition began to include executive and professionals who had previously found a way to be excused because of their importance or connections. Consequently, all occupational exemptions for jury duty have been abolished. Further, during the first year of the new system, the court realized a verified savings of $288,000 due to the efficiency of the new format. To date, over 40 jurisdictions have implemented one day/one trial systems and more are in the process. Twenty-seven footnotes are provided.