Wayne County judge outlines jury improvements, urges civic outreach on elections

Judge Nicole Gasca, who described recent changes at the Wayne County Circuit Court, told the Grosse Pointe Farms City Council that the court is emphasizing juror comfort and clearer timelines to reduce burdens on summoned residents.

“We are here to serve the citizens of Wayne County,” Gasca said, describing upgrades at the Criminal Justice Center that include larger jury rooms, back‑hallway routing by deputies, free parking and technology that displays exhibits on courtroom screens so jurors do not have to move from their seats.

Gasca summarized court volumes and services, saying the court handles civil, criminal, family and juvenile dockets and that 2025 case counts are still being compiled. She described outreach activities — including judges speaking to juror panels — as part of efforts to improve public understanding of jury duty and the courts’ mission of equal access to justice.

During questions from the council, members asked about election‑related litigation and what the court can do to reassure the public that elections are free and fair. Gasca said the court does not run civic education programs but participates in outreach and that investigatory work after the 2024 election has been handled by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office; she said some suits filed after 2024 were intended to harass candidates and that investigations are ongoing.

The presentation closed with councilmembers thanking the judge for the overview and for the court’s community engagement efforts. The council did not take action on the presentation.