Jury Service | Hampshire County Cir

About Jury Service

Jury Service Types

Grand Jury – Circuit Court
- Sixteen individuals are randomly selected at the beginning of the year in January and reconvene in May and September.
- Grand jurors are sequestered and hear presentations from the Prosecuting Attorney regarding criminal cases.
- The Grand Jury panel determines whether there is sufficient probable cause to issue indictments on the charges presented.

Petit Jury – Circuit or Magistrate Court
- Criminal cases: Twelve individuals are randomly selected to serve as the jury panel.
- Civil cases: Six individuals are randomly selected to serve as the jury panel.

Juror Selection Process

Every two years, the Circuit Clerk randomly selects potential jurors from a Master List comprised of individuals from Hampshire County voter registration and DMV records.
Selected individuals will receive a Juror Qualification Questionnaire for screening purposes only. Receipt of a questionnaire does not mean you have been summoned for jury service. Please complete and return the questionnaire promptly using the enclosed envelope or, if available, through the online Jury Portal.
Jury service is divided into three four-month terms each year, beginning in January, May, and September. Once qualified, you may be called to serve at any time during your assigned term.
If selected for service, you will receive a jury summons by mail with your reporting date, time, and instructions. Summonses are generally mailed at least 20 days before the service date.
For more information, please see the Jury FAQ section linked below.

Current Jury Service

May 2026 Term of Court - Questionnaires were mailed on March 25, 2026.
Qualified prospective jurors may be called for service between May 14 and August 31, 2026. If selected, you will receive a separate summons with your reporting date, time, and instructions.
Questionnaires may be completed online through the Jury Portal (link below). You will need the badge number located above the barcode on your questionnaire.
Juror compensation checks will be issued at the end of the term.
For additional information, please see the Frequently Asked Questions section linked below.

The Grand Jury is scheduled to meet at the beginning of each Term of Court on the following dates:
- January 6, 2026
- May 11, 2026
- September 1, 2026
Additional sessions may be scheduled by the Court as needed. Jurors will receive advance notice of any special sessions.
Juror compensation checks will be issued at the end of the term.