N.Y. Judiciary Law § 509: Qualification 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.