New York § 509 - 509Qualification of jurors

§ 509. 509Qualification of jurors

§ 509. Qualification of jurors. (a) The commissioner of jurors shall determine the qualifications of a prospective juror on the basis of information provided on the juror's qualification questionnaire. The commissioner of jurors may also consider other information including information obtained from public agencies concerning previous criminal convictions. The commissioner may require the fingerprinting of all persons drawn for grand jury service. A record of the persons who are found not qualified or who are excused, and the reasons therefor, shall be maintained by the commissioner of jurors. The county jury board shall have the power to review any determination of the commissioner as to qualifications and excuses. Such questionnaires and records shall be considered confidential and shall not be disclosed except to the county jury board or as permitted by the appellate division. (b) The commissioner may mail to each prospective juror the juror qualification questionnaire. The person to whom the questionnaire is mailed shall complete and sign it and return it to the commissioner within ten days of mailing. If the questionnaire has not been returned or properly completed, or if the commissioner otherwise determines that a personal interview is required, the commissioner may summon the prospective juror to appear before him or her for the purpose of filling out the questionnaire or being examined as to his or her competence, qualifications, eligibility and liability to serve as a juror. Such person shall not be entitled to any fee or mileage when responding for such purpose. The summons may be served personally or by leaving it at the person's residence or place of business with a person of suitable age and discretion, or by mail. If served personally or by substitution the summons shall require the person summoned to attend not less than five days after service. If served by mail the summons shall require the person summoned to attend not less than eight days after mailing.