The Somerset County Circuit Court is one of fifteen jurisdictions to replace its jury system with a new jury management system. This system offers many advantages to the citizens of Maryland and is designed to improve jury management efficiency in the Circuit Courts. A few benefits of the system for prospective jurors is the ability to complete a juror application form online and request a one-time deferral. Somerset County also now offers same-day cash payment. This is a noticeable improvement from the once a month voucher payment.
Somerset County trial jurors now serve only one month. Six weeks prior to serving, prospective jurors receive a “one-step” combined summons and qualification form. The form may be returned by mail or completed online within 10 days. Trial jurors typically serve no more than four to five times per month. Grand jurors serve for one year; specifically from July 1 - June 30. The grand jury typically meets on the second Friday of each month.
Received a Summons?
If you received a summons for jury service please complete Part B - Juror Qualification form on the back portion of your summons and return it to the jury office within 10 days of receipt. You may also complete the form online at http://mdcourts.gov/juryservice/jurorqualificationform.html. Please note that any requests for excuse must be done so in writing and forwarded to the jury office. You may be excused if you are in active military duty, are over the age of 70, have served as a grand or petit jurors within the last three (3) years, are not a U. S. citizen or have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than 6 months and received a sentence of imprisonment of more than 6 months.
Reporting for Jury Service
Somerset County has a convenient automated call-in system for jurors to verify if their service will be needed. Each qualified trial juror will receive a schedule of each day that their services may be required during the month two weeks before actual service begins. Jurors are to call the jury line 410-845-4861 after 4:30 the evening before each date to confirm service for the following day, including the first day. You will need to know your reporting number from the “Juror Badge” portion of your summons. The phone message will refer to these numbers each evening. Also be aware that your summons will specify if you are a Trial juror or a Grand juror. Grand jurors will receive a schedule of all dates for the year in which they serve.
More About Jury Service
- Frequently Asked Questions - about jury service in the Circuit Court for Somerset County
- Jury Service website - general information about jury service for citizens, jurors, and employers.
- Preparation for Jury Duty - an introduction for those summoned to jury service for the first time and to refresh the memories of those who have had past experience as trial jurors.
Your service as a juror is what makes our justice system the finest in the world and YOUR service is greatly appreciated by the Court. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Clerk at 410-845-4840 or the jury clerk at 410-845-4849.