Juror Appreciation Week 2019 begins Sunday

Judges, lawyers and court clerks thank the 93,898 Missourians who reported for jury duty in state courts in 2018 as part of Missouri’s Juror Appreciation Week held April 28 through May 4, 2019. During the week, court staff and legal professionals will emphasize to jurors how important their contributions are to our courts, communities and legal system.

Missourians who report to jury duty are answering the call to help defend democracy,” 2018-19 Missouri Bar President Ray Williams said. “That’s because the right to a trial by jury is a cornerstone of our constitution.”

More than 50 courthouses throughout the state will observe the week in different ways. Many will display a poster provided by The Missouri Bar thanking jurors for answering the call. Judges also may take additional time to thank jurors and to acknowledge the significance of their service. Other activities include special ceremonies and official proclamations marking the event. Even more Missourians can join the celebration and share photos of their activities on social media using #ThankAJuror.

“As lawyers and judges, we appreciate those who report when called and asked to serve,” Williams said. “Observing Juror Appreciation Week is our way of saying thank you.”

Missouri is one of only a few states that hold a statewide Juror Appreciation Week. The observance began in 2000 by an order of the Supreme Court of Missouri, which states, “Each year thousands of Missourians perform one of the most significant civic duties granted to citizens — they serve as fair and impartial jurors in communities throughout the state. To honor those citizens who have performed their civic duty, all Missouri courts are directed to observe Juror Appreciation Week…”

Visit the event webpage to learn more about Juror Appreciation Week or take a quiz to test your knowledge on jury service.

The Missouri Bar is a statewide organization that is dedicated to improving the legal profession, the law and the administration of justice for all Missourians. Created in 1944 by order of the Supreme Court of Missouri, it serves all 30,000 of Missouri’s practicing lawyers. The Missouri Bar provides a wide range of services and resources to its members, as well as the media, educators and the citizens of Missouri. To learn more about The Missouri Bar, visit www.mobar.org and www.MissouriLawyersHelp.org.