ATLANTA (May 4, 2026)—Residents of Fulton County who were summonsed to jury duty on Juror Appreciation Day got a surprise when they showed up. They received a personal thank you from Superior Court Chief Judge Ural Glanville and State Court Chief Judge Jane Morrison. They also were treated to swag items and food in the jury assembly room.
Juror Appreciation Day was celebrated April 30, 2026. In addition to free popcorn, snacks, and cold refreshments, jurors were gifted buttons, notepads, and other goodies. The giveaways seemed to break the ice and ease some of the uncertainty in the room as jurors waited to learn if they would be assigned to a trial. Their eyes opened a little wider as the chief judges took the podium to offer remarks.
“We understand that jury service is often an inconvenience for everyone,” said Chief Judge Glanville. “However, citizen participation is critical to obtain a lawful, fair and just jury in criminal and civil matters.”
Chief Judge Morrison was more succinct when she said, "You play an essential role."
The Sixth and Seventh Amendments of the U.S. Constitution guarantee the right to a jury trial in America for both criminal and civil matters. Jurors are impartial citizens, not lawyers or judges, who determine guilt or innocence based on evidence and common sense. Jury service is the most direct opportunity for citizens to play a vital, active role in the democratic process. By participating, jurors help ensure that trials are just and that the legal system is upheld by the people it serves.
In 2025, Fulton County summonsed 321,000 people for jury duty. Of that, nearly 700 cases had jurors seated, resulting in nearly 250 jury trials.