Jurors can now complete questionnaires online

Minnesotans who are called to serve as jurors in district courts around the state can now complete a required pre-trial questionnaire online.

The new system will allow prospective jurors the chance to visit the Judicial Branch's website and complete the Juror Qualification Questionnaire, which is required before anyone can serve on a jury in any of the state's 89 district courts.

Court officials say the online questionnaire will help speed up the selection process for prospective jurors.

Currently, citizens who are summoned are required to complete and return the qualification questionnaire to their local court administrator's office, where it is reviewed to determine if the respondent qualifies to serve.

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Each year, about 180,000 Minnesota citizens are summoned to serve as jurors in Minnesota state courts.

Hennepin County Court piloted the use of the online service during the last two years. During that time, more than 40,000 summoned citizens had the option to answer their qualification questionnaire, including requesting a postponement of their jury service, through the website service.

Court staff said about 60 percent of the Hennepin County residents receiving summons during the pilot period chose to use the Internet option.

Prospective jurors can complete the required questionnaire at the Judicial Branch's website.

The jury summons project is part of the Minnesota Judicial Branch's effort to increase its use of technology and make the courts more accessible to the public.