Since 2000, the 26th Judicial District has held an annual Juror Appreciation Week in July in an attempt to raise awareness of the importance of jury
service, as well as show appreciation for jurors serving that week. This event has grown over the years, and is primarily sponsored by
Justice Initiatives,Inc.
The week-long event usually begins with the signing of a Proclamation declaring this week as Juror Appreciation Week. The Senior Resident Superior
Court Judge and Chief District Court Judge officiate the ceremony. The Mecklenburg County Jury Commissioners are also present, when possible.
Events during the week include several guest speakers from the court system, including a courtroom clerk, court reporter, deputy sheriff, as well as several administrators who oversee various court programs. Jurors are shown movies with a patriotic theme, and given free coffee in the mornings and popcorn in the afternoon. There are usually daily drawings for door prizes, as well as a grand prize. Live music has been featured in the past. The Jury Assembly Room is decorated in a patriotic theme, as well.
Juror Appreciation Week is a time to honor the citizens of Mecklenburg County who devote their time to participating in our jury system. Our constitution guarantees that all American citizens have a right to a trial by a jury of their peers, and while jury service may be an inconvenience to some, our system of justice could not function without the participation of citizens like you.