Jury Duty Needs an Upgrade
Given our lofty status in the blogosphere, it was quite a surprise when Jack of All Blogs was called for jury duty. It seems no one is exempt, not even this opinionated blogger.
Thankfully, I was excused after only a single day. Rather than bellyache about how so many people shirk this single civic duty, I’d like to pose several questions and propose some improvements.
1) First Round, Web.
Upon receiving a summons you must check daily to see if your number comes up. Once it does you must appear at the general jury room. This is a large room with a several hundred-person capacity.
Sure, it’s decent enough. The seats are wide, there are computer terminals and plenty of magazines. But why on earth should I have to waste an entire day to wait to be called for a panel. You see, even if you have a doctor’s note or are unfit to serve on a jury, you must sit in this room all day long. It’s like a third-grade punishment.
“If one person goes home early, we’ll have to send home everyone early.”
Why can’t this initial screening process take place on the Web? In this computer age of Web cams and virtual meetings, there’s no reason this first tier can’t take place remotely. And if someone can’t afford the technology they may visit a library.
Are there any municipalities currently employing or exploring this?
2) On-Site Doctor.
Jury duty seems to bring out illnesses of all kinds. From the common cold to heavy-duty psychological claims, people pull out all the stops to wiggle out of jury duty. If I was running the show I would have a small medical staff on-site to check out people’s claims. These days, a note means nothing.
3) Permanent Jurors.
Qualifications: Open mind, ability to weigh facts, no knowledge of the case. Rather than look for these qualities over and over again in different people, maybe you can save time by just hiring a regular panel. God knows there are plenty of people looking for work.
Overall, I have to say the experience wasn’t as bad as it has been in the past. One thing was crystal clear: there are plenty of people who WANT to serve. Moving portions of the selection process to the Web would certainly save everyone time and money.
Oh, and speaking of money, parking cost me $27 for the day. Man, I never though I’d say this but it’s nice to be back at work.
Now I can sit back and enjoy a six-year reprieve. Hopefully by then I can just share my excuses online.
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Jury Experiences said this on January 15, 2008 12:03 pm