Jury Duty Letter of Instructions
Welcome to the 9th Judicial District Court.
The Clerk is a member of the Parish Jury Commission. This Commission selects prospective jurors for civil and criminal trials. The selection in Rapides Parish is accomplished by utilizing a computerized process for the random selection by registered voters and drivers’ license. You do not have to be a registered voter to serve. The summons is issued by the Clerk and served through regular mail by the Rapides Parish Sheriff. Although the summons is issued under the name of the Clerk, only a judge is authorized to excuse jurors. (Click here for information about jury qualifications or exemptions). The summons or this LINK may be used for jury excusal/exemption.
As a prospective juror, you are here to perform an important service in our judicial system. This page will provide you with some court information. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask one of the bailiffs.
- Term of Service: The average stay for most jurors is three days. The Judge will notify you, if chosen, as to the approximate length of your term.
- Jury Summons: Please correct any address changes or name changes with the court bailiff. Inform the bailiff if you traveled more than 10 miles to court. Failure to appear when required may result in a warrant being issued for you.
- Hours of Service: Court hours are normally 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; however, depending on the court load and whether you are actually seated as a juror, the hours may vary. As noted on the summons, you are instructed to call 484-9910 after 5:00 p.m. the day before your scheduled date. This recording from the Judges’ Office will tell you whether you are required to appear and if so, what courtroom. (Click here for information).
- Proper Attire: Proper attire is required for court. The following clothing items are not acceptable: shorts, tank-tops, sun dresses, mini-skirts, flip flops.
- Parking: Free public parking is available at the corner of 9th and Murray Street, under I-49.
- Facilities: Vending machines are located in the courthouse as well as a snack shop on the first floor. Depending on the length of break during court, you may want to bring change for these machines. Outside food and drink are not allowed inside the courtroom. Restrooms are located in the lobby area of each floor.
Smoking is not permitted in the Courthouse.
Turn off all cell phones, beepers or any other electronic devices before entering court.
You will be required to pass through a security check. No weapons are allowed in the Courthouse.
There are no pay phones in the courthouse.
On behalf of the court, we thank you for your service. |
