The right to a trial by jury is the privilege of every person in the United States, whether or not that person is a citizen. This cherished right is guaranteed by both the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Montana. Jury trials cannot be held unless people – citizens of Teton County, Montana – are willing to perform their civic duty. Jurors are essential to the administration of justice.

In order to be eligible to serve as a juror, you must be:

• 18 years of age or older,
• A resident for at least 30 days of the state and of the city, town or county in which you are called for jury service
• A citizen of the United States

Jury Selection

Effective October 1, 2007 jurors are randomly selected from a combined list of registered voters, licensed drivers and holders of Montana ID cards. The jury service term for the Ninth Judicial District, Teton County lasts for one year, from September 1st through August 31st.

If you are selected for the one year jury term you will be given notice by mail. You must follow all instructions listed in the notice and complete the attached questionnaire. This must then be returned to the Clerk of Court’s office within seven days.

If You Are Summoned

Call 406-466-2909 to confirm receipt of your summons.

If you are summoned for jury service, you will be given the opportunity at that time to confirm your appearance at the trial, or request to be excused from serving as a juror. The summons will include the dates of the trial, the judge assigned to the case, and all forms necessary to confirm your appearance at the trial, or request to be excused from jury service (only the District Court Judge can excuse prospective jurors from service).

Many times after a jury has been summoned, the case will be resolved without need for a trial. You will be provided with a telephone number to call and check the status of the trial. This will help to avoid possible inconvenience to you, your family, and your employer. If the trial vacates, you may be called again to serve at a later date.

If your trial date has not been cancelled, you should report to the Teton County Courthouse at 1 Main Avenue South, Choteau.

Compensation

If you are summoned and appear for a jury service you will be paid:

• $12 to appear as a potential juror;
• $25 a day if you are selected as a juror
• $0.56 a mile for round trip mileage

Additional Information

During your term, you are required to notify our office of any changes in your mailing address, physical address, or phone number. Should you plan a vacation, or have an emergency occur during the term and you find it impossible to serve, please contact the Clerk of Court’s office at 406-466-2909.

We believe you will find your experience as a juror interesting and enjoyable. We look forward to having you serve as a juror on an upcoming jury panel.