Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Barack Obama 'preparing to report for jury duty in Chicago'

'He made it crystal clear to me through his representative that he would carry out his public duty as a citizen and resident of this community'

Lucy Pasha-Robinson
Wednesday 08 November 2017 11:57 GMT
Comments
Former president Barack Obama speaks at the inaugural Obama Foundation Summit
Former president Barack Obama speaks at the inaugural Obama Foundation Summit (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Barack Obama is reportedly preparing to start jury duty in Chicago.

Court officials in Illinois confirmed the former President would complete the civic duty in November, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Sources told the Chicago Sun-Times he would start his service on Wednesday at the Daley Centre.

Cook County chief judge Tim Evans said the courts would be prepared to make adjustments to accommodate Mr Obama's security personnel.

"Obviously we will make certain that he has all the accoutrements that accompany a former president. His safety will be uppermost in our minds," he said.

"He made it crystal clear to me through his representative that he would carry out his public duty as a citizen and resident of this community."

It is not the first time the 56-year-old has been summoned in recent years, however it will be the first time he will be eligible to receive the $17.20 (£13) daily payment.

In 2010, he was also called to serve in Cook County, where he owns a home, but he declined due to a busy schedule.

In 2015, former President George W Bush reported for jury duty in Dallas, Texas.

John Kerry also served his civic duty in 2005.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in