The Superior Court of San Benito County has launched a new jury management system designed to make jury service more convenient for residents and improve the court’s ability to manage juror participation.
The Enterprise Jury Management system gives jurors expanded self-service options through a secure online portal and automated telephone system. Jurors can request postponements electronically, report scheduling conflicts or availability and receive text and email updates about reporting instructions and service status, says a press release from San Benito County Superior Court.
“We are excited to bring this new system to San Benito County,” Court Executive Officer Tim Newman said. “This upgrade demonstrates the Court’s continued commitment to customer service, accessibility and technological innovation.”
More than 11,000 jury summonses were mailed to county residents last year, with nearly 8,000 people completing jury service. Because many cases are resolved before trial, most jurors complete their service without reporting to the courthouse, according to the court.
New jury summonses will arrive as postcard-style notices and include instructions for accessing the online portal and automated telephone system.
The court also encouraged residents who think they received a jury notice in error to contact court staff for assistance. This could include people who served on a jury within the previous 12 months or have another exemption on file.
More information about jury service is available on the court’s website at sanbenito.courts.ca.gov.
