Answer Your Jury Summons
Why am I here?
The COVID-19 pandemic forced courts to reexamine their traditional procedures. The 394th Judicial District Court implemented digital solutions to better serve the people of far west Texas, while minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. We replaced several hours of sitting in a packed courtroom being questioned by the judge with this simple online questionnaire. As a potential juror, you must follow the instructions on this page.
Step One -- Online Juror Check-In and Questionnaire
Click the link below to check-in and complete the Juror Questionnaire. Have your jury summons in hand, to input your juror number and password. [Note: you must answer every question on this Questionnaire. Contrary to widespread misinformation, neither HIPAA nor the ADA gives anyone the right to refuse to answer these questions].
Step Two -- COVID19 Pandemic Operating Plan for IN PERSON Trials
We have taken every precaution to protect the health and safety of everyone in the jury system. Health screening, masking, social distancing, and sanitizing are available for all participants. Please read the COVID-19 Operating Plan so that you are not surprised or unprepared for the new processes when you arrive.
Step Three -- Watch your E-mail!
After you complete the Juror Questionnaire, watch your email for further instructions. If you exercised an exemption, you will be notified via email as to whether you are excused or not. You will also be notified via email of changes to the date or time of the setting.
Step Four -- Be Aware!
If you are experiencing any of the following, report it to the clerk immediately: :
- you are experiencing or have experienced within 10 days of your scheduled appearance date, any COVID-19, cold or flu-like symptoms,
- you have tested positive for COVID-19 with the prior 10 days; or
- you are currently in quarantine for such reason.
In addition, anyone who is particularly vulnerable to or at greater risk from COVID-19 may wear a mask and request to be seated in a more spacious part of the courtroom.
Step Five -- Appear as Summoned
Unless you are excused by the Court, you must appear at the courthouse at the scheduled date and time. Dress appropriately, and if you wish, bring your mask or face-covering. You are permitted to wear a mask at all times that you are not addressing the court.
Remember to bring your Jury Summons card as well!
Refusal to comply with any courthouse security directive or any violation of the COVID-19 Pandemic Operating Plan requirements may result in expulsion from the courthouse or a finding of contempt, which carries up to a $500 fine and a jail term of up to 180 days.