Right to Trial by Jury
According to the National Center for State Courts (NCSC), approximately 15% of the United States adult population is summoned to jury service each year in state and federal courts. An estimated 8 to 10 million citizens report for jury service every year, making jurors the largest population of court users. These men and women make application of the Seventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution possible. The Seventh Amendment provides American citizens the right to trial by jury in civil matters of law.
The Law Office of Chuck Geerhart is pleased to announce the winner of the 2022 Right to Trial Scholarship Contest: Matthew Shields from the University of Oregon. Matthew’s thought-provoking essay was the best among the all the submissions (I read every one of them), and it reflected excellent critical thinking skills as well as writing ability on the topics. Matthew has received the $1,000 in scholarship funds.
Scholarship Overview
As a premier trial lawyer, Chuck Geerhart has an in-depth understanding of trials by jury and their importance to the legal system. The Geerhart legal team wants to encourage students to take a closer look at the judicial system and examine the right and responsibility of civil jury service and the impact of the Seventh Amendment. One winner will be awarded a $1,000 one-time scholarship for their essay focused on the right to trial by jury.
Scholarship Essay Requirement
The application for this scholarship is a two-part essay, which should be completed in a maximum of 500 words responding to the following:
- Do you agree with the following statement: Jury Service is a fundamental right and civic responsibility that is essential to our democracy. Why or why not?
- What does the Seventh Amendment mean to you, and how could it affect your life?
Essays will be evaluated based on compelling writing that is creative, thought-provoking, and carefully reviewed.
Scholarship Eligibility
Applicants for this scholarship must be EITHER high school seniors accepted to a college or university (graduating summer 2023) OR students who are currently enrolled in a college or university (beginning fall semester 2023).
Important Dates
The application deadline is Thursday, December 1, 2023.
The scholarship recipient will be announced Thursday, December 15, 2023.
How to Submit Your Application
Click the button below and include the following:
- Contact information
- Transcript or proof of enrollment
- Essay