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Juror Questionnaire

The US District Court for the District of Rhode Island periodically sends letters to prospective jurors requesting that they complete a Juror Qualification Questionnaire.  This is not a summons to appear for jury duty.  The questionnaire is designed for the Court to determine if someone is qualified to serve as a juror, and we ask that you fill out the questionnaire completely.  Since this is not a summons for jury duty, you do not need to contact the Jury Office to request an excuse from jury duty at this time. (Click here for a sample version of the questionnaire letter.) 

How do I complete the questionnaire?

1.  You can complete your questionnaire online through eJuror.

2.  You can request a paper form by calling (401) 752-7293.  

What if I receive a questionnaire letter for someone who is not available to complete it?

If you receive a questionnaire for someone who is unable to complete the questionnaire, you should complete the questionnaire--online or on a paper form--on their behalf.  Both the online and paper questionnaires have a space for you to indicate that your are completing the questionnaire for someone else.

What if I have moved out of Rhode Island?

If you receive a questionnaire, and have moved out of Rhode Island, we ask that you complete the questionnaire.  On your completed questionnaire, be sure to indicate your new out-of-state address.

What happens after I complete the questionnaire?

The Jury Office reviews your questionnaire, and determines if you are qualified to serve as a juror.  If you are qualified, you name will added to the pool of jurors eligible to appear for jury selection.  If your name is randomly selected from the pool of qualified jurors, you will receive a summons indicating the date or dates on which you are to appear.  (See, the Summons for Jury Service section for more information.)

What if I fail to complete the questionnaire?

Under federal law, failure to complete the Juror Qualification Questionnaire or contact the Court within 10 days may result in the Clerk of Court summoning you to appear at the Court to complete the questionnaire.  In addition, the Court may ultimately direct you to appear before a District Judge to explain your failure to complete the Juror Qualification Questionnaire.  The Court is authorized to impose a fine of not more than $1,000, imprisonment of not more than three days, community service, or any combination thereof.