The Washington Pattern Jury Instructions Committee (WPIC) has released a new Juror Orientation Video, the first update since 2005. This 21-minute video aims to educate prospective jurors about their role in the judicial process and the significance of jury service as a civic duty.
The video includes updated language, definitions, and professionally produced graphics. It guides viewers through jury selection steps, courtroom procedures, and explains unconscious bias. The video is accessible on Washington Courts’ YouTube page and their Jury Duty webpage.
King County Superior Court Judge Michael Scott emphasized the video's importance: “The right to a jury trial is a fundamental constitutional right, essential to our system of justice and our democracy.” Judge Scott co-chaired the development alongside Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Edirin Okoloko.
Attorney Keith Kessler chaired WPIC’s Juror Orientation Video Subcommittee, overseeing content and script development. The committee expressed gratitude for his leadership in completing the project with Sandbox, Inc., a digital media agency.
Kessler noted that discussions about updating the video began years ago but were delayed by the COVID pandemic. He mentioned receiving persistent feedback from judges and court staff advocating for an update: “These were professionals on the front lines who saw... how important it is for jurors to be given clear, modern direction.”
Updating involved collaboration with trial practice experts to ensure best practices were reflected in the script. Kessler stated that the new video is designed to be informative and empowering: “My hope is that this video will help jurors feel confident as they step into the courtroom.”
For further information, contact Wendy K. Ferrell at 360-705-5331 or Lorrie Thompson at 360-705-5347.