BALTIMORE – Recognizing the importance of jury service to a healthy civil justice system, Maryland Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (MDCALA) today launched a public education campaign to make Maryland citizens aware of the rights and responsibilities of this American privilege and to urge all Marylanders to answer the call when summoned for jury duty.

“Participating on a jury is a great way to serve our country, as a robust jury system is essential to protect our rights and ensure that everyone is treated fairly in the courtroom,” said Todd D. Lamb, executive director of MDCALA. “By interpreting facts and returning an impartial verdict, jurors make sure our courts are used for justice, not greed.”

The statewide MDCALA jury service campaign, “Stand Up for Justice: Take a Seat on a Jury,” will inform Marylanders of the importance of jury service and call attention to the issues facing the jury service process, including low participation rates in Baltimore and in areas across the state. According to the Maryland General Assembly, in Baltimore alone, only 37 percent of those called for service actually show up. In addition, MDCALA will launch a paid media campaign, distribute educational brochures on jury service, host speaking engagements and sponsor Juror Appreciation Days.

“MDCALA is undertaking this campaign because when the public avoids jury service, the quality of justice is diminished,” said Earnest Hines, an MDCALA board member. “It’s important for both plaintiffs and defendants to face a jury representing a cross section of the community where all views are expressed.“

To help encourage Marylanders to answer the call when summoned for jury duty, the General Assembly passed a 2005 bill that increased jury pay from $15 to $50 after five days of service. The legislation also protects employees’ leave time from being reduced because of jury service.

“We want to urge all citizens of this state to participate in this democratic process when summoned,” Lamb said. “Over 3,000 Marylanders are currently serving our country in Iraq and Afghanistan, and answering the call for jury service is one way that we at home can help protect democracy and show our patriotism. It’s important that we all stand up for justice and take a seat on a jury.”

Maryland Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse is a nonprofit watchdog group interested in many civil justice issues. Persons wanting additional information can call 1-888-321-8480 or visit our website at www.mdcala.org.