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.]. Failure to do so may result in a substantial fine.
Step Two -- Watch this short video about Virtual Jury Service
This trial will be conducted entirely online. You will not be going to the courthouse at all! You will participate in a safe and quiet location of your choosing, free of distractions with with solid high-speed Internet access. Please watch this 3 minute video with some quick tips about connecting for your service.
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 contacted via email by the Court Coordinator with instructions on when and where to appear.
Step Four -- Appear As Summoned
Unless you receive an email from the Court excusing you from further participation, you must appear at the time and date listed on your jury summons. Dress appropriately, and be prompt.
Step Five -- COVID19 Protocols (only for In-Person Trials)
We have taken every precaution to protect the health and safety of everyone in the jury system. You must comply with the COVID19 Protocol, which details the procedures that you must follow when you arrive at the courthouse. Health screening, masking, social distancing, and hygiene are enforced for all participants. Please do not be surprised at these requirements when you enter the courthouse.
Step Six -- Medical Screening (for In-Person Trials)
When you arrive at the courthouse, you will be screened for COVID-like symptoms before being allowed to enter the building. No one who meets any of the following criteria will be granted entrance to the courthouse:
- you are experiencing or have experienced within the prior 10 days, any COVID19, cold or flu-like symptoms,
- you have within the prior 14 days been in prolonged close contact with someone with a probable or confirmed case of COVID19 and are not fully vaccinated, or
- you have been diagnosed with a probable or confirmed case of COVID19 within the prior 10 days.
If you meet one of these criteria, contact the jury hotline number printed on your jury summons, immediately.
[Note: you must answer these questions when you attempt to enter the courthouse. Contrary to widespread misinformation, neither HIPAA nor the ADA prohibit compelling disclosure of this information to the court.]