Illinois Supreme Court Unveils New Jury Orientation Video

The Illinois Supreme Court’s Illinois Judicial Conference (IJC) announced today the release of a new jury orientation video which will serve as an introduction to jury service for all 24 circuit courts in Illinois. 

“Jury service is a hallmark of the American justice system,” said Chief Justice Anne M. Burke, who also serves as Chair of the IJC. “This video serves as an excellent introduction for those called to jury duty and answers many questions they may have to make for a positive experience.”

Jury orientation provides an important first impression of the court for prospective jurors. This orientation video helps prepare jurors for service and answers common questions in a systematic and consistent manner.

The video was developed and produced by the IJC Public Relations Task Force (Task Force). The Task Force was formed to help fulfill a goal of the inaugural IJC Strategic Agenda to educate people about the Judicial Branch and ensure Courts across the state speak with one voice.

“We found that many circuits in Illinois didn’t have a jury orientation video. Also, some of the videos out there had become dated,” said Cook County Judge Celia Gamrath, Chair of the IJC PR Task Force. “The video came out beautifully and I would like to thank Urbana attorney John E. Thies for serving as chair of the jury video subcommittee, NBC5 reporter Lisa Parker for serving as the narrator and Illinois Appellate Court Justice David Ellis for writing the script. We look forward to the video being used throughout the state.”