Butler County to streamline jury management process
Butler County’s court administration office is rolling out a new jury management system aimed at streamlining the jury duty experience.
The new Enterprise Jury Manager system from Tyler Technologies is making its debut in trials scheduled for November in Common Pleas Court and replaces the Jury Plus system, which had been used for more than 20 years, according to court administrator Candace Graff.
“The county began using Jury Plus software in the early 2000s,” Graff said. “After more than 20 years, inefficiencies and outdated communication have contributed to overall lower response rates.
“It was determined that it was time for an upgrade that would transition to improved communication, increased reliability and provide jurors with convenient access to the information and services they need.”
The Jury Plus system was a two-step process of first sending qualification postcards to potential jurors and then sending out a separate mailing including a summons, questionnaire and other literature.
With the new system, Graff anticipates enhanced efficiency, accessibility and convenience for residents summoned to jury duty.
The one-step Enterprise Jury Manager system involves mailing a single postcard summons that serves as means for the juror to electronically qualify, complete their questionnaire online and obtain important information within the Butler County Juror Access portal.
“We do expect these changes to create cost savings related to both postage and printing,” Graff said.
Each juror will have access to a secure, private portal where they can view the most up-to-date information, upload required documentation and communicate with jury management staff more efficiently, she said.
The new system creates a streamlined approach to the entire juror experience, placing a stronger emphasis on digital communication.
A juror has the convenience to access and complete the juror questionnaire quickly and easily by either scanning a QR code, accessing the link directly at www.butlercountypa.gov/juroraccess or by visiting the Butler County website at www.butlercountypa.gov and selecting the “Courts” page followed by “Jury Management.”
The Juror Access portal is designed to offer self-service options related to deferrals or excusals, opt-in for text or email notifications and real-time updates and alerts.
Graff said the new system will first be used for jury trials scheduled for this month.
