A prospective juror might wonder what to expect after following the instructions and calling the number to see if they need to report for jury service, Jurors around the country will have different experiences. Some will have a positive experience and feel great accomplishment, others will be relieved they aren't chosen, and for others just appearing will cause discomfort and aggravation. Being prepared helps make the experience positive.
Parking may be an issue if the number of jurors called is greater than spaces available. If this is the case, the parking lot may fill quickly and just arriving on time may cause hassle. To minimize this stress jurors should follow the directions on the summons. Parking rules may change from the time the summons is mailed to the date of service. The jury commissioner's office will let jurors know of changes on the day of jury duty and what to do if a car is parked in the wrong place.
When entering the courthouse, jurors pass through security. They will be checked for weapons, perhaps have their bag x-rayed and walk through a metal detector. If the detector goes off, a security professional will use a wand to check for metal objects. No weapons will be allowed to enter the courthouse and the policy on cell phones and other communication devices and cameras varies, either check ahead of time on the court's policy or leave them in vehicle or at home. Privacy and safety of the parties involved and jurors is essential.
The general experience is showing up and presenting the jury summons and then waiting for the court to be ready for jurors. The bailiff or other court assistants calls a potential panel from the larger group of juror candidates. The judge will give a brief summary of the case, the expected length of the trial and interview the jurors to make sure they are all qualified to serve as candidates. The qualifications include being a United States Citizen at least 18 years of age, resident of the district where called to perform jury service, English reading, speaking and understanding, status of current or prior jury service in the past 12 months as explained on jury summons, personal physical or mental illness and being the primary caregiver of a person with a physical or mental disability. Beyond the standard qualifications jurors will be asked if they know any parties involved in the case including possible witnesses or are related to or friends with other jurors.
Once the panel is qualified, the prosecution and the defense will ask questions perhaps about hobbies, beliefs, jobs, prior experience with civil or criminal court cases and other questions as appropriate to the case. If a potential juror does not feel comfortable answering in front of others they should ask for privacy to answer the question. The judge and lawyers will listen to the answer in chambers or a location away from other potential jurors and the public.
At this stage both the prosecution and defense have the option of excusing a certain number of potential jurors without giving a reason to have the best possible jury for the case. Some potential jurors are relieved to be excused, others may be disappointed not to be chosen. Being dismissed is no reflection on the person or ability. Another potential juror takes the place of the excused juror and questioning resumes until both sides have either exercised their maximum challenges or are happy with the panel. The judge states the jury is seated and excuses the remaining potential juror candidates.
If chosen for the jury, the trial begins immediately and service is expected for the duration except for extenuating circumstances. The judge will give legal instructions about the prosecution having to prove its case, the defense will cross-examine, the defendant may or may not choose to be a witness. The judge will ensure the jury knows the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Jury Service Checklist
Jury Service Summons and questionnaire (follow the directions on the summons)
Pillow or lumbar support if needed to sit for long periods of time
Personal support and assistance (eye-glasses, hearing aids, oxygen, wheelchair, cane)
Medication needed during the full day
Food for lunch or breaks as desired
Leave weapons in your vehicle or at home (pocket knives, sharp instruments, guns)
Stretch, take a walk, or exercise during breaks
Request permission to take a bathroom break during selection if needed
