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What type of Space is Needed Now?
In-Person Jury Assembly Space
A large assembly space is not needed if orientation and selection are conducted online. Instead of reporting to a large assembly area, jurors can report directly to their assigned courtroom. On rare occasions when the inperson assembly is needed, the in-person jury pool size would likely be much smaller, and could be conceived as a lounge area with comfortable seating as opposed to a traditional jury assembly space with high density seating. The Jury Lounge should be equipped with a choice of microenvironments that include lounge areas and quiet zones for those who might be working while they wait. With the reduced capacity, it’s not as crucial for the Jury Lounge to be on a lower floor, but locating it near the Public Access Center would provide opportunities to share resources.
An entrance/waiting area, check-in counter area, self-check-in kiosk area, and management office support areas should be provided. Juror assembly amenities may include a break room furnished with café tables and a large flexible conference and training space/juror overflow space. The juror assembly area should include a combination of assembly-style seating, softer lounge-style seating, and a business area. Theatre seating can accommodate large numbers of individuals in limited space, but softer, lounge-style seating is often more comfortable for jurors over more extended periods. In addition, a business center may include work carrels where jurors may be able to plug in a laptop and access a wireless network. Also, with strategically placed video monitors for orientation, announcements, and entertainment, many courts have displayed information about the community's local justice system and legal history to help educate and inform those on jury duty.
