Philadelphia Jury Selection Commission – Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia Jury Commission

The Philadelphia Jury Selection Commission is the administrative body responsible for summoning and managing jurors for the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania. Located in the Criminal Justice Center (CJC) at 1301 Filbert Street, the commission ensures a fair legal process by providing impartial jury panels for both the Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court. The office handles juror qualification, scheduling, payroll, and requests for postponements or excusals.

Jury Service and Responsibilities

• Summons Response: Citizens receiving a summons must respond online or by mail. Failure to appear for jury duty is a legal violation and can result in fines.
• Selection Process: Prospective jurors report to the Jury Assembly Room for orientation and potential selection (voir dire) for civil or criminal trials.
• Compensation: Jurors receive a daily statutory fee and travel compensation for their service, typically issued via debit card upon completion of service.

Security and Facility Rules

Visitors must pass through airport-style security screening. Weapons, pepper spray, and sharp objects are strictly prohibited. The dress code is business casual; shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops are not permitted. While cell phones are allowed in the assembly area, they must be silenced or secured in Yondr pouches when entering courtrooms.

Location and Transit

The CJC is centrally located near City Hall and Reading Terminal Market. It is highly accessible via SEPTA Regional Rail at Jefferson Station, the Market-Frankford Line at 13th Street, and numerous bus routes along Market Street.