What happens in the court house when you go to jury duty?

Question

I've been summoned and I really have no excuse not to show up or get out of it. Will the judge ask me direct questions when I'm there? Will they actually use me as a juror or will they make me fill paper work before? So basically, I have no idea what goes on. Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

You will sit around and get moved around a lot.  Take a cushion to sit on and something to occupy your time...magazine, book, knitting.

You won't talk to a judge.  The court clerks pick out potential jurors.  Attorneys ask questions.  You either get picked or do not get picked.

It is sooo boring.

Answer 2

They will call people up, both lawyers will ask you questions, they will decide if they want you to be on jury or not.  They will do this until they have 13 people.  12 jurors and 1 alternative juror, in case someone gets sick during the trial.  There is nothing to be nervous about!  I promise.  They will just ask you what  you think about different issues- they are trying to find the best jury-- unbiased as possible.  For example, if it was a child endangerment case- I am a teacher,  not a mother: but want to be: therefore my answers would more than likely make me NOT be the best person to be picked for that jury.

I think you do fill out a card-  I can't remember- If they knew I was a teacher or asked me that first.  Alot of times- you will call the night ahead of jury duty and it will tell you not to report for duty.  Many cases are settled out of court.  Like I said, really don't be nervous, just be yourself.  They are only picking out a jury- so their will be a lot of people there.  They may select jury before they have to call on you.  Best of Luck!

Answer 3

The questions are usually asked by the attorneys in order to see that you are not prejudicial.  

My experience is giving in paper in to prove that I am there and then waiting along time in a large auditorium type room with hundreds of other prospective jurors. Some people were periodically called and were escorted by a bailiff to a smaller room where they were questioned by the attorneys. I was not selected to be on a jury.

Answer 4

You'll fill out paper work and a copy will be given to

the prosecution and defense.  They'll ask you questions

and either accept/reject you.