Jury Duty

Our federal and state constitutions guarantee that all people, regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin or economic status is afforded the right to a trial by jury. Your participation as a juror is an integral part of the laws, which protect the fundamental rights of all citizens.


Selection of Jurors

Random selection of jurors begins with the Secretary of State using a valid drivers’ license or state identification card. A list is provided to the Macomb County Jury Commission who then issues and reviews qualification and personal history questionnaires. After review, the Macomb County Jury Commission forwards a list of qualified applicants eligible to act as a juror in the 41A District Court for summonsing.

Eligibility of Jurors

Jurors must:

  • Be a citizen of the United States
  • Be a resident of the City of Sterling Heights, Shelby Township, Macomb Township, or City of Utica
  • Be 18 years or older (those over the age of 70 may be exempt upon their request)
  • Be able to speak and understand the English language
  • Be physically and mentally able to carry out the duties of a juror
  • Not have served as a juror in the past 12 months
  • Not have been convicted of a felony

Duty of a Juror

As a juror, you must be fair, impartial and be free of any bias or prejudice. It is important that if you are selected to act as a member of a jury panel that you listen carefully to the instructions given by the presiding judge. The judge is the final voice regarding courtroom procedures.


You must be attentive to the testimony of witnesses, examination of exhibits and other admissible evidence. At the conclusion of all testimony the attorneys will close with a summation of their case and finally the judge will instruct you as to how to conduct deliberations. Deliberations should be based solely on the testimony and evidence introduced during the trial - you should not base your decision on sympathy or prejudice.


It is extremely important that you do not discuss the case with anyone (including fellow jurors), family members, friends, acquaintances, attorneys or witnesses prior to deliberations.


Juror Payment

You will be paid the statutory rate of:

  • $15.00 for a half day
  • $30.00 for a full day for your 1st day’s appearance
  • Any subsequent day will be $22.50 for a half day and $45.00 for a full day

Reimbursed Mileage

Additionally, you will be reimbursed mileage at the rate of $ 0.20 per mile from your home to the court. At the conclusion of your jury duty, you will receive a Statement of Service indicating the amount of reimbursement, which will be paid by the City of Sterling Heights. You should expect to see payment approximately 4-6 weeks after your service.


Employer Notice

While your employer is not required to pay you while on jury duty, employers are prohibited by law from discharging, disciplining, or threatening to discharge or discipline you for your jury service.


Postponement of Jury Service

Upon receipt of your jury summons if you have a scheduling conflict (pre-planned vacation, business trip, medical procedure, etc.) please contact the 41A District Court to speak to the Jury Clerk. You may be required to provide documentation of scheduled event upon request of the Presiding Judge or Jury Clerk. Only 1 postponement will be granted. Postponements will not be granted within 10 days from the scheduled jury dates.


Updated: February 2022