Tuesday, I reported as per instructions. The case for the day was delayed. A last minute decision by the defendant resulted in the case being settled out of court. The jury panel was dismissed and told to call back after 6:00pm for instructions for Wednesday.
Wednesday, I reported as per instructions. At 9:30 we went into the courtroom. The case was production and distribution of methamphetamines. The district attorney asked the jury panel voir dire questions. I was honest and forthcoming with my past relationship with the brother of the defendant. I worked with him for several years, considered him a friend, never met him outside of work, and believed that it would not influence my decisions concerning the case for which his brother was accused. Needless to say, I was not selected for this jury panel.
It is very important to be honest during the voir dire examinations (Page 4). Even if I do not think I harbor prejudice or bias, the information should be made available for the plaintiff’s and defendant’s lawyers. This lets them challenge the juror to validate impartiality.
We were told to call in at 6:00pm today for instructions for Thursday. I did so, and the recording dismissed all jurors that were sequestered this week. As it turns out, I was unneeded as a juror for this cession of the judicial circuit.
Did I do my civic duty? I believe so. I showed up and was completely honest. There was nothing more I could do for our country at the time. Perhaps next year, I can serve my community again in the protection of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness by discharging my duty as an impartial juror.
I know you can’t talk about the case, but when its over I’d love to hear about it.
Comment by Master Thompson — February 10, 2010 @ 5:15 pm
The post has been edited. I came close, real close, but didn’t serve this time around.
Don’t worry brother, I’m sure they will not forget my name.
Comment by david — February 10, 2010 @ 7:12 pm