Not-a-juror

[hrj]

I wasn't empaneled. I wasn't even interrogated. Is it egotistical to feel deeply disappointed? (The annoying thing is that I've never gotten to be an actual juror, and this is the first time I've been called up when it would actually be rather convenient -- particularly given the projected short trial.) Ah well. I guess I have to work for half a day, then.

Comments

[joycebre.livejournal.com]

being a juror is an exercise in 'hurry up and wait'. You get there on time, (because they threaten you with a bench warrant if you're late) you wait around for the lawyers and judges to try to settle at the last minute. You listen to a little testimony, they send you on break while they discuss why people can't say what they just said. rinse, repeat.

[stitchwhich.livejournal.com]

If it helps, I was told by a lawyer that "the smarter you are, the less we want you on the jury". It is easier to sway jurors who don't think much. In your population area, I would imagine that is a common tool for lawyers. (Were I a lawyer, it would be for me, I guess, considering what they are taught about courtroom tactics.)

I was only called once, and then dismissed, to my disappointment too. Which how I ended up having a little by-chat with a friend who was a court lawyer.

[ppfuf.livejournal.com]

After what stitchwhich says about smart people on juries, I suppose I shouldn't admit this, but I was empanelled once. Near as I could tell, the court system is mostly lunches and long breaks, punctuated by small amounts of people talking. The case I was on was dismissed, and if I could vote that judge out I would.

[visc-lore.livejournal.com]

I don't blame you for feeling disappointed. I've been on two juries, and both were fascinating. Sure, there was some waiting, and some stupid-lawyering, and some bickering amongst ourselves when trying to come to a decision - but I felt it was an honor to serve, and weighed my personal decision by asking whether I would have been internally satisfied if the defendant had been a relative, AND if the victim had been.

Better luck next time!