Jury duty question (in NY)?

Question

I got summoned to serve towards the end of the month on a Wednes.. I was wondering how long I might be there for. Also I hear you have to wait till they call your number. Are you allowed to use your phone or bring a game like a DS in the waiting area as well as a book/paper? And do u get a regular lunch break and for how long?

Thanks. Any extra info would be gladly appreciated!

Answer 1

Sometimes you are called in,at least the first day,and later they may want you to be available by phone.If you are not chosen within the first week you will usually be excused. They have TV,waiting rooms,you can bring books,telephones,and writing materials.You get 1 hour off for lunch,and you can meet people if you want to,while waiting.I enjoyed it.GoodLuck

Answer 2

The last time I was summoned, I called the number and did in fact have to go.  I had to go to the court house on Pearl Street (downtown NYC).  

Plan on being there - if you have to go - for the entire day.  It wasn't terrible and actually the process was interesting.  I brought a newspaper, a book, some notecards to write some well overdue thank you's, and wrote out a to do list.  I recall having to hand in my cellphone /blackberry upon entering and would get it back when leaving for lunch and of course when I left for the day.  I then had to go back for 2 more days while jury selection was occuring.  I was not picked and my service was completed.  I was kinda bummed because I was looking forward to being part of a jury.

I did meet some nice and interesting people.

Answer 3

I think they will treat you humanely.  The people who believe in the system of justice, hold the jury in high regard.  If you want to serve, you will enjoy the experience.  Most people I have associate with are just not interested in serving and they just do not cooperate with the selection process.  In some jurisdictions many of us do not register to vote. This is a way to  avoid involvement with the system.   That may not be your view.  I do not think you will have any difficulty.