The keystone of the justice system in the United States is the right to a trial by jury. This right is guaranteed by the United States Constitution and Maryland's Declaration of Rights. The right to a jury trial has a long history. It was part of the civil liberties granted by King John of England on June 15, 1215, and was recorded in the document known as the Magna Carta. Trial by one's peers was designed to prevent too much power accumulating in the hands of the king. Juries continue to be important to the justice system. Jurors determine the facts of the evidence in the case presented to them. Jury duty is an opportunity to serve the community. We in the court system will try to make your experience as pleasant as possible. In exchange, we hope that you will be fair, impartial and dedicated in completing your jury duty.
"Your service as a juror is what makes our justice system the finest in the world. On behalf of the Maryland Judiciary, I offer our thanks to those of you who have served, and will serve, as jurors."
Robert M. Bell
Chief Judge
Court of Appeals