The City Hall Jury Room 195 is located within Philadelphia City Hall, a historic and iconic building in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This room is specifically designated for jury-related activities and is part of the larger judicial system operating within the City Hall complex.
Overview
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Name: City Hall Jury Room 195
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Location: Philadelphia City Hall, Broad and Market Streets, Room 195, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.
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Primary Use: A facility where prospective jurors report for jury duty as part of the judicial process in the
First Judicial District of Pennsylvania.
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Jurisdiction: Serves the Philadelphia County Court system, which includes the Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court.
Philadelphia City Hall
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Historical Significance:
-- Built between 1871 and 1901, Philadelphia City Hall is one of the largest municipal buildings in the United States and a National Historic Landmark.
-- The building serves as the seat of government for the City of Philadelphia and houses both judicial and administrative offices.
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Architecture:
-- Designed by architect John McArthur Jr., it features a French Second Empire style.
-- The William Penn statue atop the building is a prominent city landmark.
Jury Room 195 Functions
1. Jury Duty Registration and Orientation
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Check-In:
-- Prospective jurors report to Jury Room 195 after receiving a jury duty summons.
-- They provide identification and check in with court staff to confirm their attendance.
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Orientation Session:
-- Jurors are given an overview of their responsibilities, the importance of jury service, and what to expect during the selection process.
-- Educational videos or presentations may be shown to familiarize jurors with courtroom procedures.
2. Waiting Area for Jury Selection
- Prospective jurors spend time in this room while waiting to be called for
voir dire (jury selection).
- The room is equipped with seating, restrooms, and amenities to accommodate jurors during their wait.
3. Administrative Services
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Jury Staff Assistance:
-- Court staff are available to answer questions, address concerns, and provide assistance with any issues related to jury duty.
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Document Processing:
-- Completion of paperwork related to jury service, including exemptions, deferrals, or accommodations for disabilities.
4. Juror Resources
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Wi-Fi and Workspaces:
-- Jurors can use personal devices to work or access entertainment while waiting.
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Refreshments:
-- Some jury rooms may offer vending machines or nearby access to cafes and restaurants.
5. Scheduling and Dismissal
- Once a jury panel is selected or if they are not needed, jurors are dismissed from the room with instructions about further obligations, if any.
Key Features
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Location Convenience:
-- Easily accessible via public transportation, including SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, and regional rail services.
-- Nearby parking garages are available for jurors who drive.
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Professional Environment:
-- The room is maintained as a quiet, professional space to ensure jurors are comfortable and informed throughout the process.
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Technological Integration:
-- Modern technology is used for registration, juror tracking, and communication with courtrooms.
What to Expect During Jury Duty
1.
Arrival:
-- Jurors are required to arrive at Jury Room 195 at the designated time mentioned in their summons.
-- Security screening is mandatory upon entering City Hall.
2.
Check-In:
-- Present the jury duty summons and a valid photo ID.
3.
Orientation:
-- Listen to instructions from court personnel and watch a short educational video about jury duty.
4.
Waiting Period:
-- Jurors may wait for several hours as cases are reviewed and panels are formed.
-- Bring reading material or personal devices for entertainment during this time.
5.
Selection Process:
-- If selected, jurors are escorted to a courtroom for
voir dire or further instructions.
-- If not selected, they may be dismissed or asked to return later.
Contact Information
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Address: City Hall, Room 195, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
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Phone: [Insert contact number for Jury Services]
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Email: [Insert email address for Jury Services]
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Website: [Philadelphia Courts - Jury Service](https://www.courts.phila.gov)
Tips for Jurors
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Be Punctual: Arriving on time is crucial to avoid delays in the judicial process.
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Dress Code: Business casual attire is recommended to maintain courtroom decorum.
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Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for security checks and navigating City Hall.
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Parking and Transportation:
-- Public transportation is highly recommended due to limited parking around City Hall.
-- Jurors may receive a stipend to cover travel expenses.
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Communication: Check the status of your jury duty via the court’s website or hotline before attending.
Nearby Amenities
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Restaurants and Cafes: Numerous dining options are available in and around City Hall.
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Hotels: Ideal for jurors traveling from distant areas.
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Cultural Sites: Located near historic attractions like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Significance of Jury Room 195
Jury Room 195 is not just a functional space but a critical component of the
Philadelphia judicial system, upholding citizens' right to a fair trial by an impartial jury. By serving as a juror, individuals contribute to the administration of justice and democracy.