As I mentioned as a possibility in my post of May 16, 2005, there has been a genuine change for the better in Dallas County, and other Texas counties. Effective January 1, 2006, jurors in Texas courts will be paid $40.00 per day, beginning with their second day of jury service. I wish the $40.00 would begin with the first day, as this would probably ensure mare participation, but this change is definitely better than the current $6.00 per day situation.
I am optimistic that the makeup of Dallas County juries will now improve (from a personal injury plaintiff’s perspective), to include more working-class people. At $6.00 per day, these folk could not afford to serve on juries. At $40.00 per day, jury service is a much more attractive alternative to work. Finally, a new Texas law that actually benefits injury victims. It is truly the season of miracles!
