Murphy restores jury service rights for more than 350,000 New Jerseyans with past convictions
NEW JERSEY — Gov. Phil Murphy on Sunday signed an executive order restoring jury service eligibility to more than 350,000 New Jersey residents who were previously disqualified because of a criminal conviction, a move supporters say will strengthen the state’s justice system and expand civic participation.
Executive Order No. 411 restores jury service rights to people who have completed their sentences for disqualifying convictions under New Jersey law and are otherwise eligible to serve. Previously, individuals convicted of indictable offenses under state law were barred from jury service.
“Serving on a jury is a defining expression of United States citizenship and, for many, the most significant opportunity—outside of voting—to share in the responsibilities of democratic self-government,” Murphy said. “Restoring the right to serve on a jury builds on our Second Chances Agenda and strengthens our justice system, which has disproportionately impacted Black and Latino communities. Addressing these barriers helps ensure that our juries are more representative of the communities they serve and that our democracy is stronger, fairer, and more inclusive.”
The order applies to individuals whose disqualifying convictions occurred on or before Jan. 10, 2026, once they have completed incarceration, probation and parole. Those convicted under federal law or the law of another state, as well as individuals convicted of impeachment or treason, remain ineligible because those cases fall outside the governor’s clemency powers.
Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way said the action reinforces public trust in the courts.
“As a former Administrative Law Judge, I recognize the importance of both fairness and public confidence in our justice system,” Way said. “By broadening participation in jury service, Governor Murphy is strengthening the legitimacy of our courts and affirming the principle that completion of a sentence marks a return to full civic responsibility.”
The signing ceremony was held at New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange, the hometown of the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver. Murphy highlighted the story of Dameon Stackhouse, who spent more than a decade in prison for robbery and has since dedicated himself to community service. Stackhouse, who had been barred from jury service for 22 years, will now be eligible to serve.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the Governor’s action today as I reflect on having my right to serve on a jury restored after nearly 22 years,” said Stackhouse, a justice fellow at the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. “This milestone is not just personal; it represents a collective expression of voices from my community – our community – that demand to be heard.”
Faith and community leaders also praised the move.
“This Executive Order represents a significant step toward civic restoration, fairness, and inclusion,” said the Rev. Thurselle Williams, pastor of New Hope Baptist Church. “By restoring jury eligibility, the State of New Jersey affirms that justice is strengthened when those who have paid their debt to society are given the opportunity to fully participate in civic life.”
The order drew bipartisan and statewide support. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker said the action reflects a belief that “our justice system is about fairness, not permanent punishment,” while Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman called jury service “a responsibility of citizens to our justice system.”
Murphy’s action builds on his administration’s broader “Second Chances” agenda, which includes restoring voting rights to people on probation or parole, expanding expungement opportunities and establishing the state’s first Clemency Advisory Board. Since the board’s creation in 2024, more than 300 clemency actions have been granted.
“The right to serve on a jury is a cornerstone of our democracy,” said New Jersey Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti. “Restoring jury eligibility for people impacted by the justice system recognizes their growth and affirms that they are fully part of the communities in which they live.”
Supporters said the executive order will help ensure juries more accurately reflect New Jersey’s diverse population, strengthening fairness and public confidence in the courts.
