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Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Lauds Importance of Role Jurors Play in our Democracy

April 17, 2006

HARRISBURG, April 17, 2006 — Chief Justice of Pennsylvania Ralph J. Cappy today praised Pennsylvanians who have served as jurors for their work and support of one of the most fundamental and vital aspects of the American justice system. In recognition of the General Assembly’s declaration of Juror Appreciation Week in Pennsylvania from May 1 to 7, the chief justice today expressed the gratitude of the Supreme Court and all of the Commonwealth’s jurists to the more than 150,000 Pennsylvanians who each year play an essential role in our system of law and justice. “The fundamental right to a trial by jury as contained in the Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, and Article I, Sections Six and Nine of the Pennsylvania Constitution, gives citizens a central role in the justice system,” Cappy said. “Juror service — along with voting — are two of the more significant and important civic duties Pennsylvanians can take part in. Jury service can be an experience of a lifetime and a fundamental illustration of the American form of justice at work. In a very basic way, this sets the United States and its citizen participation apart from many other nations. “Confidence in our judicial system is enhanced by the men and women who serve the public good through jury service. We are delighted to honor juror service — not just during Juror Appreciation Week — but every day. Jurors deserve our thanks and support for their vital contribution to the administration of justice.” Local juror appreciation festivities also are planned in many communities across the state to commemorate the importance of jury service.