CHARLESTON – A statewide legal reform group is celebrating its annual Juror Appreciation Week.
West Virginia Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse calls it an effort to encourage and educate residents about the importance of jury participation to our justice system. The weeklong public education effort highlights the importance of the jury system and serving when summonsed.
“When West Virginians serve on juries, they become an important part of the judicial process," WV CALA Executive Director Roman Stauffer said. "Citizens who serve as jurors come away from the experience with a better understanding and higher regard for the justice system. That’s why WV CALA is proud to recognize Juror Appreciation Week."
Stauffer
Stauffer said jury service contributes to the American system of justice and is an important form of service to local communities. He said WV CALA will encourage small businesses and employers to educate employees on what resources are available to them if they receive a jury summons.
“It’s our goal to improve the percentage of West Virginians who complete a jury service questionnaire and return it," he said. "Jury service is a duty of citizenship, similar to paying taxes and voting.
"Thank you to the thousands of citizens of West Virginia and the United States for making our country a symbol of justice. When given the opportunity to serve on a jury, I encourage you to answer the call.”
