New ‘Show-Me Jury’ System Utilizes Online Capabilities

Prospective jurors in Pettis County will soon have the option to communicate with the court by text or e-mail, as the Pettis County Circuit Court implements the new Show-Me Jury system.

The court will mail new Show-Me Jury questionnaire letters later this month for jury service beginning January 1, 2020.

“A big benefit to the public will be the ease of contacting and communicating with the courts regarding jury service,” Susan Sadler, Circuit Clerk, said. “Although Show-Me Jury is not completely paperless, it allows our potential jurors to do more online. It will make jury service more convenient for our citizens.”

Potential jurors who do not have access to a computer or who prefer not to communicate information electronically may call the Circuit Clerk’s Office to request paper copies of questionnaires.

Pettis County citizens should be aware that Missouri courts do not require anyone to provide confidential information over the telephone or by e-mail. The Show-Me Jury system is designed to give citizens the ability to choose how they want to communicate with their local courts about potential jury service. Any telephone call or e-mail threatening the recipient with fines or jail time for failure to comply are fraudulent, are in no way connected with Missouri courts and should be reported to local law enforcement officials.

“Juries are a hallmark of the American justice system, and we truly appreciate the willingness of our citizens to serve as jurors,” Sadler said. “Through the Show-Me Jury system, we hope to make that service much easier and more convenient.”

The new Show-Me Jury system was piloted in the St. Louis City Circuit Court beginning in February 2017. The Pettis County Circuit Court is the 36th court to implement the Show-Me Jury system.