Frequently Asked Questions about Jury Service
Why is jury duty important?
The United States Constitution and the Washington State Constitution guarantees all people the right to trial by an impartial jury. Justice ultimately depends in large measure on the jurors who serve in our courts.
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What is my duty as a juror?
As a juror, you must be fair and impartial. Your actions and decisions must be free of any bias or prejudice. You must apply the law given by the judge to the facts given during the trial to make a decision in a case.
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How was I selected for jury duty?
You were selected at random from lists of voter registrations, driver registrations, and Washington State identification cards for residents of King County.
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Who is eligible for jury duty?
Jurors must :
- Be a citizen of the United States
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Reside in King County (preferably in the City of Seattle although county residents may serve)
- Be able to communicate in the English language RCW 2.36.070
You cannot serve on a jury if you have been convicted of a felony and your civil rights have not been restored.
If you are in doubt about your eligibility for jury service, you may email the Jury Assembly Clerk 
or contact by mail or telephone at:
|
Jury Assembly Clerk Municipal Court of Seattle Seattle Justice Center 600 Fifth Avenue PO BOX 34987 Seattle, WA 98124-4987 (206) 684-5688 |
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How long does jury duty last?
Jury duty in Seattle Municipal Court is Tuesday through Friday. However, if you are seated on a jury, your service may be continued to the following week to complete a trial. Jurors are required to serve for the duration of a trial.
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Can jury duty be rescheduled?
Yes. First you must be eligible for duty. Please read these requirements before you reschedule. You also must identify three (3) choices for one week of jury service, within the next twelve months. You may reschedule online, or you may write to:
|
Jury Assembly Clerk Municipal Court of Seattle Seattle Justice Center 600 Fifth Avenue PO BOX 34987 Seattle, WA 98124-4987 |
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What types of cases are heard by jurors?
Jurors in Seattle Municipal Court most commonly hear misdemeanor cases such as driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, shoplifting, assault, domestic violence, vehicle prowl, or prostitution. Jurors occasionally hear civil cases involving charges such as violation of building regulations or business license regulations.
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Are jurors paid for jury service?
Jurors are paid $10 per day. Checks are usually mailed 30 days after the completion of jury service. Call the Jury Assembly Clerk, 684-5688 with questions about checks or further information.
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Must my employer pay me while I am on jury duty?
Your employer is not required to pay you while you are on jury duty, however, employers are prohibited by law from firing an employee for serving as a juror. RCW 2.36.165
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Court Contact: (206) 684-5600 or Customer Service Site Maintenance: smcweb@seattle.gov