Legislature, governor join Judiciary in celebrating Juror Appreciation Week

HAGÅTÑA, Guam—Recognizing the invaluable contributions of jurors to Guam’s justice system—lawmakers, the Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero and Lt. Gov. Josh F. Tenorio joined the Judiciary of Guam in declaring Juror Appreciation Week from Sept. 9 to 13, 2024. The annual event honors the more than 13,000 citizens who report for jury duty each year, enabling thousands of cases to be fairly adjudicated in the local courts.

To kick off the event, a resolution introduced by Speaker Therese M. Terlaje of the 37th Guam Legislature was presented at the Guam Congress Building last Sept. 9.

“The right to a trial by jury is a cornerstone of the American legal system, and the privilege and duty of serving as a juror is as fundamental to democracy as the right to vote,” said Terlaje. “We also recognize the Judiciary for its role in creating an environment for these jurors that is safe, that is with dignity, and that allows them to serve in our Constitutional system.”

Juror Appreciation Week aims to publicly acknowledge those who have served, educate the public on the importance of jury duty, and strengthen confidence in the justice system.

Leon Guerrero and Tenorio also presented a proclamation to the Judiciary. “Jurors often set aside personal, family, and professional responsibilities to fulfill this important civic duty,” said Governor Leon Guerrero in her proclamation. “It is only right to recognize and commend the dedication of past, present, and future jurors who continue to answer the call to serve and uphold the principles of justice and democracy.”

“We know that jury service is not always easy, but it is always critical. It’s how we ensure that justice is not just for the few, but for everyone,” said Presiding Judge Alberto C. Lamorena III. “To every juror, past, present, and future—we could not deliver justice without you. Thank you for your service and your commitment.”

For more information about jury service, visit the Judiciary of Guam’s website at https://www.guamcourts.org/for-Jurors/Juror-FAQ.html. (PR)