Molly Justice
Director of Communications & Marketing
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Idaho jury office receives national jury innovation award
Williamsburg, Va. (Oct. 8) – The Ada County (Idaho) Jury Office has been named the recipient of the 2024 G. Thomas Munsterman Award for Jury Innovation for its ongoing efforts to improve the jury service experience for its citizens.
Named for G. Thomas Munsterman, the founder and former director of the National Center for State Courts’ (NCSC) Center for Jury Studies, the award recognizes states, local courts, organizations, and individuals who have made significant improvements or innovations in jury procedures, operations, and practices.
"I commend the staff in Ada County for their commitment to prioritizing juror needs," said Center for Jury Studies Director Paula Hannaford-Agor. "The office’s recent improvements and innovations demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices jurors make in order to serve."
The Ada County Jury Office will receive the award during an event on Friday, Oct. 18.
Under the Jury Commissioner’s leadership, the Ada County Office has launched several initiatives to enhance the juror experience and public perception of jury service, including:
- Updated Facilities: The jury assembly room was remodeled with new furniture, workstations, and a café to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment.
- Integrated Technology: The office leverages technology - including online questionnaires, a real-time chat feature, and a YouTube video - to simplify administrative functions and guide jurors through the process.
- Efficient Use of Time: With a five-day term of service, most jurors are released within hours, reducing stress and financial impact.
- Financial Assistance: Funded by juror donations, the Jury Assistance Fund covers transportation, childcare, and some meals. In 2023, 51% of jurors donated their daily fee to support the fund.
- Community Support: Partnerships with local restaurants and businesses help lower the costs of meals, transportation, and access to recreational facilities, saving resources and enhancing the juror experience.
The Ada County Jury Office is the busiest in Idaho and assists up to 3,000 jurors a month. In 2023, the office summoned 55,000 jurors for service.