Jury service campaign launched

A campaign has been launched to encourage people to fulfil jury service obligations.

The campaign, which involves a series of posters on websites and in newspapers, is part of a wider programme of work to improve information and services to jurors.

In 2009 more than 300,000 people were summoned for jury service, but only 17 per cent showed up, with 21 per cent failing to attend and a further 62 per cent being excused.

"The awareness programme is aimed at all New Zealanders eligible to serve on a jury, and in particular acknowledges those who have to make special arrangements to do so, such as for childcare," Courts Minister Georgina te Heuheu said.

"Online surveys with potential jurors before, during and after the programme will help identify whether it has been successful in raising awareness and changing public perceptions about jury service."

- NZPA