Jury Services
Juror Orientation
Your responsibility as a juror is to decide the facts and apply the law impartially without favor or prejudice toward any person or group, regardless of economic income, sex, race, creed, or country of origin.
The juror orientation video, "Justice for All: Orientation to Jury Service" is available to help you learn more about jury service and your important role in the legal system. Also available is a video developed by the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) and American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) called "Answering the call for jury duty." This video will help explain who is eligible for jury service, what to do when summoned, and what happens when selected to serve.
Jury Services
Jury service is the fulfillment of a high civil obligation and a valuable privilege. There is no more vital work you can perform in support of your fellow citizens in the exercise of self-government than by an honest fulfillment of jury service. Conscientious service brings its own reward in the personal satisfaction that an important task has been well done. The effectiveness of our system of justice is measured by the integrity and dedication of the jurors who serve in our courts. This is our democratic ideal--to impart justice that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people. Most jurors consider it interesting, educational, and an honor to play a part in the fair administration of justice.
The courtrooms are in operation from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays. The reporting time for prospective jurors varies, but is usually 8:00 or 8:30 a.m. Depending on the Court's needs you may be asked to report later during the day.
Court Security
If you are exhibiting respiratory symptoms, shortness of breath, coughing, headache, flu-like symptoms, etc. you should not report for jury service. Instead, contact Jury Services right away.
If you have been exposed to someone who has recently tested positive for COVID-19, please do not report for jury service. Instead, contact Jury Services right away.
Please note that all persons and their property entering the courthouse are subject to search and screening to ensure proper court security. Please do not bring large backpacks or large carry bags. You may bring a small purse or a clear bag containing only the necessary items you will need. However, please be sure to remove any items that could potentially be considered a weapon. This will expedite the security screening process.
All weapons and contraband are prohibited. Items that could potentially be used as a weapon are not permitted in the courthouse and will be confiscated by the Sheriff. This includes firearms, pocket knives, box cutters, nail clippers, metal tweezers, knitting needles, metal utensils, bottle cap openers, or any other item that could be construed as a weapon. If you have any items of this nature, you must NOT bring them when reporting for jury duty. When reporting for jury duty, please allow extra time to go through the weapons screening line.
If you have received a Jury Summons, click here for Reporting Instructions.
Click here for detailed information about Jury Policies & Procedures, including employer information, deferrals and exemptions.
Jury Scam Alert
Santa Barbara County Superior Court officials are aware of a scam in which identity thieves target local residents and threaten them for failing to report for jury service. These perpetrators then ask for confidential information. Jury Services staff NEVER ask for Social Security Numbers, credit card numbers, bank account numbers or other confidential and sensitive information. Information such as this is not contained within our database and we do not request this information from the juror. We urge all members of the public to be aware of such scams and be careful whenever you reveal confidential information over the telephone. Do not give out such information over the phone to anyone who calls you claiming to be with the jury office of the Superior Court.
The court is aware of such activity in Santa Barbara County. A similar scam has also been reported in San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties. If you receive such a telephone call please contact your local law enforcement agency.
Juror Information
If you have been sworn to serve as a trial juror, click here for Juror Information.
Click here for Employer Information regarding the rights and responsibilities of employers whose employees have been selected for jury service.