If you've received a pink postcard in the mail, it just means you're in the pool of over 16,000 people to be randomly selected for jury duty sometime throughout the next jury term (September 1 - August 31).
This happened because you are:
18 years of age or older
A citizen of the United States
A resident of Missoula County for at least 30 days
A registered voter in Missoula County
A holder of a Montana driver's license or ID card.
What Do I Need to Do Next?
You are required to respond as to your qualifications to serve as a juror. Don't worry, it's quick and painless. You can simply scan the QR code on your postcard, or follow this link to complete a questionnaire:
If technology isn't your strong suit, that's okay! Please give us a call at (406)258-4780 to request a copy of this questionnaire in the mail.
I've Received a Trial Summons - What Now?
The Clerk of Court compiles lists of randomly selected names to appear at jury selection as requested by the five Missoula County District Court judges. If you've received one of these packets in the mail, you've been chosen to appear.
We ask that you carefully read the summons, then contact our office to confirm that you have received the information. This can be accomplished the following ways:
If you are unable to appear for jury duty, you will need to submit a written request for excusal. This can easily be done be email. Your request will be passed to the judge, who may either grant or deny your request.
Do I Really Need to Show Up?
In short - Yes. Unless you have been excused by the Judge, your presence is required on the date listed in your summons.
Trials frequently settle beforehand. If this happens, the Clerk of Court will attempt to contact you to let you know your appearance is no longer needed.
Sometimes cases settle very last-minute and the Clerk of Court is unable to contact people. We strongly encourage each prospective juror, either the night before or the morning of the trial, to check the Jury Trial Status page or call (406)258-4797.
Where Can I Park?
Your summons has a parking pass that allows you to park at any regular metered parking downtown, free of charge. Please make sure your parking pass is face up and clearly visible on your dashboard. Alternatively, you may park on the third floor of the parking garage located on the 100 block of Main Street. When you check in for jury duty, you will be provided with a voucher to get out of the parking garage at no cost.
