The United States Constitution guarantees the right to a trial by jury in criminal prosecutions. In civil lawsuits (disputes over money, property, and other non-criminal matters), state constitutions provide for the right to trial by jury—but this right may be limited to certain types of claims. And in order to be entitled to a trial by jury in a civil matter, a party generally must file a written request for a jury trial and pay a jury fee a reasonable time before trial.
In Missouri, the right to a trial by jury in civil cases is preserved under the Missouri Constitution and state statutes. This right is generally applicable to disputes over money, property, and other non-criminal matters. However, it may not extend to all types of civil claims, as some may be statutorily excluded or limited. To exercise the right to a jury trial in a civil matter, a party must typically file a written request, known as a 'demand for jury trial,' with the court. Additionally, a jury fee must be paid within a specified time frame, which is usually a reasonable time before the trial is set to begin. Failure to make a timely request or to pay the required fee can result in the waiver of the right to a jury trial. The specific procedures and time limits for requesting a jury trial can vary depending on the local court rules and the type of civil case.