Third Branch eNews

Justice Rebecca Dallet is encouraging county leaders to recognize jurors and help residents better understand the importance of jury service ahead of Juror Appreciation Month in September.

In an article published in the July 2026 issue of Wisconsin Counties magazine, Justice Dallet describes jury service as an essential form of civic participation. Jurors do more than observe the justice system, she writes. They participate directly by weighing evidence, resolving disputes, and bringing the judgment of the community into the courtroom.

Drawing on her 10 years as a Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge, Justice Dallet recalls watching jurors with different backgrounds and experiences set aside their regular responsibilities to serve. “This is how American democracy works,” she wrote.

Justice Dallet also identifies appreciation and education as two ways counties can help citizens arrive for jury service ready and willing to participate. Suggestions include thanking jurors personally, recognizing their service, making their time at the courthouse more comfortable, and explaining the process in a welcoming manner.

To support those efforts, the Wisconsin Court System offers a Juror Appreciation Kit with suggested courthouse and community activities, sample outreach materials, resolutions, thank-you letters, certificates, talking points, and jury education resources. Courts and counties can use the kit to plan local recognition efforts during September and throughout the year.