Potential Jurors in Hawai‘i Advised to Report Illness and Travel

Maui Now graphic. Background image by Wendy Osher.

The Hawaiʻi State Judiciary is asking any potential juror who has a fever, cough, or other respiratory symptoms; has returned to Hawaiʻi within the last 14 days after traveling internationally; or who has COVID-19 or has been in close contact with a person who has or is suspected of having COVID-19 to call the court to reschedule jury service.

Also, anyone who is at higher risk for contracting COVID-19 is also asked to call the Jury Pool Office. This includes people who are 60 and older; have underlying health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes; have weakened immune systems; or are pregnant.

A potential juror is someone who has received a Summons for Jury Service in the mail. Those who only filled out a juror survey last fall are not included and should not call.

The Jury Pool Office phone numbers are as follows:

• First Circuit (Oʻahu): (808) 539-4360
• Second Circuit (Maui County): (808) 244-2757 or 1-800-315-5879
• Third Circuit (Hawaiʻi Island): (808) 961-7646
• Fifth Circuit (Kauaʻi): (808) 482-2349

“The health and safety of everyone coming to our court facilities is of utmost concern to us,” said Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald. “Potential jurors are required by law to come to court when summoned, and we want them to know they can reschedule until their situation allows them to serve without risk to themselves or those around them.”

The department reports that courts have also redoubled their efforts to clean high-traffic areas more frequently, including restrooms, elevators, door handles, bannisters, counters, tables, chairs and benches.

As previously announced, attorneys and self-represented litigants whose scheduled appearances require inter-island travel may ask to appear telephonically or by video conference as permitted by court rules.

“The COVID-19 situation is rapidly evolving. We will be as flexible as possible during these challenging times to ensure the safety of our court users, while maintaining access to justice,” Chief Justice Recktenwald said. “We continue to examine all possible alternatives to in-person visits and will provide updates.”