Jury Service General Information
Length of Service:
As a petit juror, you are on call for one week or service on one entire trial. While it may require some adjustments of your normal schedule to serve as a juror, we make it convenient for you to check on your juror status online or through a recorded message service. Please call (419)424-7002 after 5:00 p.m. Friday, or anytime on Saturday or Sunday before the date on the summons to determine if you need to report.
Additionally, when you include your phone number on your juror questionnaire, you will receive an automated electronic jury service notifications reminder of your jury service. You must include your phone number on your juror questionnaire and return your juror questionnaire to the Court to receive this service. You may also opt out of the automated message by checking the box at the bottom of the questionnaire which indicates: Check this box only if you do not want to receive automated electronic jury service notifications via text message or phone.
Your Jury Summons/Questionnaire:
You will receive your jury summons/questionnaire in the mail approximately two (2) weeks prior to your term of service. You are to return your questionnaire within one week. Please retain your jury summons for future reference and your records.
Your Compensation:
Compensation varies between counties and is set by the Board of County Commissioners. In Hancock County, jurors receive $20.00 for appearing the first day. If you are seated and serve as a petit juror, you will receive $30.00 for each subsequent day of service. You should receive your payment in the mail two to three weeks after your appearance. Your employer is required to give you time off from work to serve jury duty. Check with your personnel department to find out what your company policy is regarding Jury Duty Pay. Failure to appear as ordered may subject you to Contempt of Court (O.R.C. 2313.29 and 2313.30).
Your Attire:
Please use good judgment and report for jury duty properly dressed. Business casual is appropriate attire. Please dress for temperature variations in the courtrooms.
Parking:
Please place the provided parking pass that came with your juror summons on the dash of your car. Please see Juror Parking Map for parking locations. In the event that you receive a parking ticket please bring the ticket to the third floor of the Courthouse and check in at the kiosk. Please select the option “juror questions” and wait for a judicial assistant to assist you. You will need to sign the back of the parking ticket and indicate if you are the owner of the vehicle. Parking tickets must be returned to the Court within 24 hours of receiving them or you will be responsible for the parking ticket.
Court Security:
To maintain proper security, all persons entering the courthouse (including courthouse employees) will be subject to search and screening. Bags, cases, and parcels may be searched.
Questions About Your Jury Service:
If you have any questions regarding your service, please call the Court Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at (419) 424-7005.