Missouri’s 2022 Juror Appreciation Week kicks off Sunday

Next week, judges, lawyers, and court clerks will formally thank the thousands of Missourians who reported for jury duty in state courts in 2021 as part of Missouri’s Juror Appreciation Week held May 1-7, 2022. During the celebratory event, court staff and legal professionals will emphasize to jurors how important their contributions are to our courts, communities, and legal system.

“Juries are the heart of our judicial system, and the right to a jury is essential to the rule of law,” said John Grimm, 2021-22 Missouri Bar president. “Every Missourian who participates in the jury process helps ensure equal justice for all. Thank you!”

Courthouses throughout the state will observe the week in a variety of 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 acknowledge the significance of their service. Even more Missourians can join the celebration and share photos of their activities on social media using #ThankAJuror.

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 mobar.org and MissouriLawyersHelp.org.