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Jury Duty
There are NO Jury Trials scheduled at this time.
Thank you!
Message to Jurors
Judge Gary Carter and the Sidney Municipal Court thank you for your service. By serving, you have the opportunity to directly participate in the American legal system which has been in place since the beginning of our Country. Jury trials are part of the process that protects the fundamental rights of all citizens. It is an important and rewarding service that you have been summoned to provide for Shelby County.
Jury Service Video: https://www.ohiochannel.org/video/jury-service-in-ohio
How was I chosen for jury duty?
Your name has been drawn at random from a list of registered voters in Shelby County. Persons 18 years of age or older, from all walks of life, may be called. You must be a U.S. citizen, living in Shelby County, and be able to read, hear, and speak the English language.
Do I have to?
Yes. You have been officially summoned by the Court to be a potential juror. If you do not report for jury service without a lawful excuse from the Court, you may be brought before the Court for contempt proceedings. And remember, as a juror, you are a vital part of the court system. If you have received a notice to serve as a juror, and you have a medical condition, are 75 years of age or older, or if there are other circumstances that you feel will prevent you from serving, you must fill out a Jury Excuse Form and return it to the Court. The Judge will review your request form and make a decision. If you are excused, the court will mail you a letter granting your request. You may also contact the project/program coordinator at 937-498-8738 with any questions.
What about my job?
Your employer cannot fire or otherwise penalize you for performing jury duty. Some employers compensate their employees for the time they are gone for jury duty. Contact your employer to find out your company’s policy. The Court will provide you with a participation receipt when you leave.
Compensation for Jury Duty
You will receive a $15.00 check from the Shelby County Auditor for appearing on the given day for jury duty that lasts ½ day. If you are selected to serve a full day of jury duty, you will receive a $25 check. All checks will be mailed to you at the address you provided on your questionnaire from the Shelby County Auditor.
How long will I be there?
You will receive a letter two weeks ahead of time notifying you of the date to serve. You will need to report to the Sidney Municipal Court on the 2nd floor Jury Room by 8:45 a.m. It is possible that you will not be chosen to be on the jury panel or as an alternate, and you will be released early in the day. If you are chosen to serve, jury trials generally take one day and may last into the evening. It is rarely but possible that it will go beyond the first day. Should this occur, you will be notified when to return to complete your jury service.
What should I wear for jury service?
Wear comfortable clothing that enhances the dignity of the Court and emphasizes the seriousness of your responsibility. Business casual is appropriate.
Will there be breaks during the trial?
Jurors are given a lunch break and may be given other breaks during the trial.
Types of Cases Tried in Sidney Municipal Court
Civil cases are limited to $15, 000.00. The cases normally involve two or more parties who have a dispute over money or property. The person filing the suit is the plaintiff and the person being sued is the defendant. Eight jurors and one alternate juror will be selected to serve and all others will be released. A verdict in a civil case requires that three-fourths of the jury agree. Therefore, in a civil matter, six of the jurors must reach a verdict.
Criminal/Traffic cases will involve a person, also known as the defendant, who is charged with a crime or traffic offense. The plaintiff is either the State of Ohio or City of Sidney. Cases heard in the Sidney Municipal Court are misdemeanors such as Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Theft, Domestic Violence, and Assault. In a criminal/traffic case, all eight jurors must agree upon the same verdict.
Your Role is Important
Jury trials are an important part of our justice system and serving as a juror is an important role as a citizen. Whether you ever sit as a juror or not, you will have been an integral part of the process, and your service to the community will be appreciated by the Court and the parties involved.
Juror Information Line
Jury trials may be settled or continued after you receive your notice to appear. It is your responsibility to call our Court at 937-498-8712 between 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. the day before your scheduled appearance.