Snacks and drinks sit on two tables with blue tablecloths. Blue and white balloons are next to them. The seal of San Francisco Superior Court is displayed on a monitor.

Feature

California Courts Celebrate Jurors

On May 11-15, courts shined a spotlight on the citizens that help bolster our democracy by making the cherished right of trial by jury a reality.
May 18, 2026

In 1998, the California Legislature designated the second full week in May as Juror Appreciation Week to honor the sacrifices and contributions of citizens who uphold the right of trial by jury and to raise awareness about their contribution to the court system.

"During Jury Appreciation Week, we honor the unsung heroes of our justice system," said Orange County Presiding Judge Sheila F. Hanson. "This week is an important opportunity to reflect and recognize, with deep gratitude, the invaluable contributions that each juror has made to our judicial system. We express our gratitude for the pivotal role that jurors play in the democracy of our country--jury service is the bedrock of our justice system." 

During Juror Appreciation Week, many courts make an extra effort to recognize those fulfilling their jury service. These are a few examples:

  • Napa Superior Court is celebrating the entire month and providing cookies for all jurors at the beginning of each week in May. They’re also providing lunch one day per week for each sworn jury. 
  • Orange Superior Court had court staff greet jurors with tokens of appreciation for their time, commitment, and support. 
  • Placer Superior Court held a special event that brought together judicial officers, appellate justices, court staff, attorneys, and former jurors. 
  • Sacramento Superior Court provided popcorn, water, and other goodies. Posters created by local high school students were displayed digitally. 
  • San Bernardino Superior Court provided prospective jurors with certificates of appreciation, light refreshments, and word games. 
  • San Francisco Superior Court acknowledged the work of the outgoing 2025-26 Civil Grand Jury with snacks, drinks, and goodies. 
  • Santa Clara Superior Court encouraged the public to join in their celebration of jurors by writing handwritten notes, through social media messages, or by offering a simple expression of thanks. 
  • Tulare Superior Court gave out swag bags to jurors, including pens, notepads, and pins with designs that thank jurors.
Making the Jury System Better for Jurors

In addition to Juror Appreciation Week, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. Learn more about recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California.

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