have been selected for jury duty and want to find out if my jury has been canceled?

The Carroll County Circuit Court Clerk's Office will notify you if a jury has been cancelled, however, it is important to be sure that the office has the correct contact information.

I have been selected for jury duty and need to change my information.

Who is exempt from jury service?

Only a limited number of persons are ineligible to serve as jurors. Virginia Code § 8.01-341 lists those persons who are exempt from jury service and Virginia Code § 8.01-341.1 lists persons who may claim an exemption from jury service.

What is the best way to obtain answers to my questions about jury service?

Many questions can be answered by using the Answer Book for Jury Service (PDF) given to you with your jury summons. If you cannot find an answer to your question on this website or in the Answer Book please call the Carroll County Circuit Court and we will be happy to answer any questions we can.

How are Carroll County's jurors chosen?

Potential jurors are randomly selected using lists designated by the court.  Carroll County uses the driver's license list merged with the voter registration list. The selection method is designed to produce a cross section of the community. Annually approximately 2,500 Carroll County residents are sent juror questionnaires used to determine eligibility for jury service.

After the questionnaires are returned to the Clerk's Office they are reviewed by Jury Commissioners to determine which citizens are qualified for jury service. Jury Commissioners are private citizens appointed by the Circuit Court Judge to assemble a Master Jury List. The qualified names are added to the Master Jury List that is submitted to the Circuit Court Judge on or before December 1 for use during the next year.

Am I required to report for jury duty?

Failure to respond to a summons for jury duty is a violation of law and may result in criminal sanctions.

Will I be reimbursed for serving on jury duty?

You will be paid $50 for each day you report to the courthouse. You should receive a check in 30 to 45 days after the Term of Court ends in which you are required to serve.

Is it possible that I might report for jury duty, but not actually sit on a jury?

There are times when you will report for jury duty only to find that you are released early. Whenever possible, we try to avoid having any juror appear when not needed; however, if this happens, you are still entitled to payment in the amount of $50.

What about my job?

Your employer cannot fire, demote or otherwise penalize you for missing work while performing jury duty. Many employers continue to pay your salary while you are on jury duty. It is advisable to give your employer ample notice of your jury duty and to determine your employer's policy with regard to payment of wages/salary while serving as a juror to find out what the policy is at your job.

How should I dress when I report to court?

Please wear comfortable, conservative clothes appropriate for a business environment.

Is there anything I can do to make my jury service more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable?

While efforts are made to reduce delay and avoid waiting time, you may have to wait a while at the courthouse before you find out whether you have been chosen to actually sit on a jury. You can bring a book or other quiet activity; solve a crossword puzzle; write a letter; sketch a picture; or get to know your fellow jurors. Remember that as a juror, you are a vital part of the court system. Part of the job of many court employees, such as the bailiffs and clerks, is to help make your jury service comfortable and convenient. Don't be afraid to ask them for help. For security reasons no electronic devices such as cell phones or electronic devices are allowed in the courthouse.

How long will the trial last?

The length of jury trials varies greatly, but the vast majority of trials are completed in one day. The Circuit Court Judge will tell you at the start of the trial the estimated length of the trial. At that time you will be given the opportunity to raise any concerns that you have about your ability to serve.

What about lunch?

You will be given time for lunch each day.

What does the Grand Jury do?

The Grand Jury determines whether the accused will be indicted and held for trial in Circuit Court.  The Grand Jury reviews all criminal indictments and determines if there is sufficient evidence to send the case to trial.