State juror appreciation program launched

Gov. Jim Doyle has proclaimed September as juror appreciation month in Wisconsin.

To mark the occasion, circuit courts throughout the state will participate in a variety of activities intended to thank jurors, and to recognize the critical role they play in our democracy and system of justice. The theme of this year's event: Jurors Serve Justice; Justice Serves Us All.

The statewide celebration, co-sponsored by the Wisconsin court system and the State Bar of Wisconsin, will kick off with a press conference in Milwaukee on Sept. 3. Supreme Court Chief Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson, State Bar President Diane S. Diel, and Chief Judge Kitty K. Brennan, Milwaukee County Circuit Court, along with other state and local officials, will host the press conference.

Chief Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson

"The Wisconsin court system and the citizens of this state greatly appreciate the time and dedication of jurors. Without them, our system of justice would not function properly. Employers and families of jurors also deserve tremendous thanks for supporting Wisconsin jurors," Abrahamson said.

The statewide program builds on the success of a Milwaukee County juror appreciation program established last year. To mark the occasion this year, many counties, including Dane and Waukesha, will hold press conferences. A variety of other activities to demonstrate appreciation for jurors, their families and employers are expected in other counties.

Forest County, for example, will post notice in the local newspaper to invite jurors who have served in the past to an open house at the courthouse, said Clerk of Court Penny Carter. The open house could in some ways resemble a wedding reception, she said. Carter said she has ordered gold and green M&M Candies, each embossed with the words "Thanks" and "Jurors." The M&Ms will be wrapped in bunches, tied with "juror appreciation" ribbons and set out next to a cake that will be served, Carter said. Local officials, including the judge, district attorney, chief of police and county board chairman are expected to address visitors. Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson also will attend.

Both houses of the Legislature also drafted citations in support of the occasion, and many county boards are expected to pass supporting resolutions. The Court Information Office is working on articles and materials for the media, which will be posted on the court system's Web site.

The statewide juror appreciation program was initiated by the Chief Judges Subcommittee on Juror Treatment and Selection and was spearheaded by District Five Court Administrator Gail Richardson.

Sample press releases, talking points and related materials have been made available to judges, clerks of circuit court and other court officials on CourtNet, the court system's Intranet. More than two dozen counties have ordered commemorative and display items, such as banners, posters, magnets and pins, Richardson said.

The right to a jury trial is a fundamental component of the American and Wisconsin justice systems, and the willingness of Wisconsin residents to serve as jurors is critical to preserving this right, Abrahamson wrote introducing the project. "A number of courts and states have established juror appreciation programs in the past few years. I am glad that Wisconsin now joins those ranks. I encourage you to meet and discuss the possibilities for your court…," Abrahamson wrote.

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