NCJ Number
79687
Date Published
Unknown
Length
39 pages
Annotation
This report details Alabama's efforts to modernize its jury system during the first year of an LEAA Juror Utilization/Management Incentive (JUMI) grant, September 1979 to December 1980, including improvements to source lists, recommended revisions in legislation, and technical assistance projects.
Abstract
An outline of the modified standards developed by the JUMI staff to align LEAA element standards with the Alabama court system are presented, along with a description of JUMI staff training and project goals. Statewide accomplishments are then discussed, beginning with the research and analysis activities. A uniform juror information reporting system was implemented first in the 14 courts chosen for study, and a study demonstrated that computerized drivers' license lists provided the most complete and accurate source for juror selection. A successful petition to revise a Federal court order in one circuit allowed the drivers' license list to be used. The JUMI staff also prepared a bill to be introduced to the legislature in 1981 that will improve jury management and recommended changes in the Alabama Rules of Criminal Procedure. Technical assistance projects undertaken by the JUMI staff and offered to all courts on a request basis are then summarized. These efforts included implementation of first-class mail for summoning, application of computerized methods to the qualification process, and a telephone call-in system whereby court clerks can inform jurors whether or not to appear the next day. An area of major interest was juror orientation through letters, audiovisual presentations, and a juror handbook. The JUMI program produced a monthly newsletter, published a reference guide on jury management techniques, and organized seminars for court personnel. Progress reports are presented for each pilot court, along with a cost analysis. Tables and maps are included.