Jury Duty question- possible conflict if I am picked?

Question

I've already postponed jury duty once (this is in NY). I'm in grad school and had to postpone until a break in semesters. So this Monday (Dec 3) I have to show up. I'm actually interested in seeing what the experience is like, but I'm worried that I might get picked for a long case! I'm going home to California in 3 weeks- I hardly ever see my family, and I can't imagine _not_ going because of jury duty. On the other hand, I don't want to be in contempt of court. During the jury selection process, do they give prospective jurors an idea of how long the case might last-- so if they say it will last a month, I would hopefully have a chance to explain my situation. Likewise, if they say it should only last a week or less, I'd have nothing to worry about I hope. Also, my semester starts in early January- and even more so than Christmas with my family, I absolutely cannot miss my residency for school. If so, I wouldn't be able to graduate. I hope they would be able to defer me.

Answer 1

Yes, they typically let you know how long the trial is expected to last. Your conflict (that you're in school and live elsewhere) is legitimate, and they likely won't choose you.

Answer 2

A friend said those who had strong opinions...one way or another, were most likely to be eliminated by one side or the other's attorney. Questions will vary on the case...but you should either love or hate whatever they are asking about: cops/guns/drugs/business type involved/whatever