By Mandy Murphey | This piece originally appeared on Fox 2 St. Louis
St. Louis, MO | October 26, 2026
Sitting on a jury is often described as a civic duty. But for some jurors, the emotional impact of hearing graphic testimony, viewing disturbing evidence, and making life-changing decisions can linger long after a verdict is reached.
Now, for the first time, jurors serving in St. Louis Circuit Court will have access to immediate trauma-informed mental health support through a new partnership with the YWCA, aimed at helping people cope with the emotional toll of jury service.
Graphic Cases Can Leave Lasting Impacts
Judges and court officials say jurors in cases involving murder, sexual assault, and child abuse are routinely exposed to traumatic details that can trigger powerful emotional reactions. “I see this in almost every case involving sexual abuse,” Judge Katie Fowler said. “I see jurors having extremely traumatic reactions.”
The issue gained renewed national attention during the high-profile Lindsay Clancy trial, which highlighted concerns about the emotional burden placed on jurors who must weigh difficult evidence and make decisions in deeply disturbing cases.
Jurors Often Carry the Experience with Them
For Tamra Thetford, who served on a murder trial jury about a year ago, the experience remains difficult to forget. “The experience was extremely heavy and serious and difficult,” she said.
Like many jurors, Thetford was prohibited from discussing the case while the trial was underway. She says what she heard in the courtroom still affects her today. She also recalls watching a fellow prospective juror struggle during jury selection after being asked to discuss a painful childhood experience that could have affected her ability to be impartial.
According to Thetford, the woman became overwhelmed and suffered a panic attack in front of a room full of people. “It felt very alone in jury selection,” Thetford said.
New Support Available Immediately After Trial
Concerned by stories like these, Judge Fowler formed a task force this summer to study juror trauma and identify ways courts can better support people serving on juries. “The research indicated that more than 50% of jurors experience trauma as a result of jury service,” Fowler said. “We are recognizing that trauma is there and we are all nationwide coming up with ways to support our jurors.”
As a result, the court is now partnering with the YWCA to provide immediate support once a trial ends. “When the verdict is in, they will have the opportunity to have a debrief right here in the moment at the courthouse,” a YWCA representative said. “We have the ability to come here and debrief the jurors right on the spot.”
Recognizing the Signs of Trauma
Mental health professionals say the impact of a trial is not always immediate. Some jurors may experience symptoms days or even weeks later. “I may not be sleeping well, I may not be eating well, or I keep having intrusive thoughts,” Samantha Wayant, Senior Director of Crisis Services for the YWCA, said. “That is a normal reaction to hearing abnormal things.”
Court leaders hope the new program will help jurors recognize those warning signs and connect them with resources before the effects become more serious. “The last thing when a juror gets called to serve and do their civic duty is to traumatize them,” Fowler said.
A First Step Toward Change
St. Louis court officials believe the program represents an important step in acknowledging the emotional burden jurors can face and ensuring they receive support after fulfilling one of the most important responsibilities in the justice system. As courts across the country continue exploring ways to address juror well-being, St. Louis is now among the jurisdictions taking action to help those who serve.
If you or someone you know needs support, YWCA Metro St. Louis offers a 24/7 crisis helpline and comprehensive services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, including advocacy, emergency housing support, therapy, transportation assistance, and childcare resources.
ABOUT YWCA:
YWCA Metro St. Louis is a leading provider of services that promote safety, stability, and opportunity across the region, serving more than 10,000 individuals and families each year. YWCA Metro St. Louis is dedicated to empowering individuals, families, and survivors by facilitating a future where every person is safe, supported, and heard. Programs include crisis response and housing, early childhood education through Head Start and Early Head Start, and career readiness and supportive services for individuals and families.