LA county courts announces major jury portal redesign

The Los Angeles County Superior Court announced a major redesign of its online jury portal on Tuesday, with features including mobile registration, personalized directions, service checklists, and options for notifications and calendar reminders.

"Jurors play a vital role in upholding a justice system that is fair, equitable, and just," Presiding Judge Sergio C. Tapia II said in a news release. "The court's mission --to ensure equal access to justice by resolving cases fairly, efficiently, and promptly -- would not be possible without their invaluable service. Redesigning our portal to inform court users about the jury process has been a key priority. We hope the new, user-focused features will give jurors the support they need -- whether on call or reporting to the courthouse."

The redesigned portal, scheduled to launch on April 7, will allow prospective jurors to register electronically through computer or smartphone, check in and request excusal or postponement.

The site will also include an interactive chatbot to assist jurors with those functions and answer any other questions they may have.

Executive Officer and Clerk of Court David W. Slayton touted the redesign's benefits in Tuesday's news release.

"Jurors are a cornerstone of the justice system and out of gratitude for jurors' time and service, the Court has strived to create a more efficient experience for jurors by providing helpful tools they can utilize from the moment they receive their summons until their jury service is complete," Slayton said. "The portal's new features are designed to give jurors all the information they need at their fingertips to know exactly what their responsibilities are during each phase of their jury service."

Prospective jurors will still be able to register over the phone using the court's Interactive Voice Response System, the court's news release said.