2024 Annual Report

FOR THE JUROR

JURY PILOT PROGRAM Enhancing Jury Service Through Increased Compensation

In 2024, the San Bernardino County Superior Court was selected as one of seven courts across California to participate in the AB 1981 Jury Pilot Program, an initiative to increase juror compensation to improve participation and diversity. Beginning September 3, 2024, jurors in San Bernardino County began receiving $100 per day, starting on the second day of service, a significant increase from the previous rate of $15 per day. The mileage reimbursement rate was also raised from $0.34 to $0.67 per roundtrip. This pilot program, funded by Assembly Bill 1981 and administered by the Judicial Council of California, will assess whether higher compensation encourages a broader cross-section of the community to serve on juries. In addition to San Bernardino County, courts in Alameda, El Dorado, Fresno, Imperial, Monterey, and Shasta counties are participating.

The program will continue until early 2026 or until designated funding is exhausted. At its conclusion, the Judicial Council will report its findings to the California State Legislature, providing valuable insights into the impact of increased juror compensation on participation and diversity. By taking part in this initiative, the court reaffirms its commitment to fostering a more representative jury system and ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent community members from fulfilling their civic duty.

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