Jury services changing

Jury services are changing for the better in Bonner County, and jury commissioner David Thurman said jurors will start seeing improvements as soon as Friday regarding how they are summoned and how they serve.

Provided through partnership with the state of Idaho, Thurman said the county is rolling out a new jury management system. Improvements to the system include better communication and the more efficient use of jurors' time as they go through the jury process.

“Along with the ability to fill out juror qualification questionnaires online, counties using this system can contact jurors via email or text message to remind them of their upcoming jury duty,” Thurman said. “The jury commissioner can easily alert jurors of any changes in the status of a jury trial, such as cancellations or changes due to a plea. If a juror is dismissed early, a text or email notification can let that juror know before they travel to the courthouse.”

Starting Jan. 1, 2024, Bonner County jury service terms will be modified to a two-week term of service. Jurors may be required to serve more than one time during that period of service.

Thurman said jurors that are chosen will receive a summons packet in the mail. Due to the change in systems, jurors that have previously served within the last two years may still receive a summons; however, they will be able to provide proof of dates served and their jury service will be adjusted accordingly.

Additional information will be available soon on the county website and questions can be directed to jury@bonnercountyid.gov or 208-265-1443.