Thinking about Jurors

I had jury duty today, and the past week… I’ve been thinking a lot about our justice system and the role of jurors. I don’t know that I would consider myself a very political person, but the idea of jury duty fills me with a strong sense of patriotism.

While jury duty itself is a nuisance and an annoyance, I also feel it’s part of the compact we all make as American citizens. It’s weird, but I feel quite proud to be called, and to go participate.

Sadly, all I did today was wait. Never did get called, and got dismissed in the afternoon. I do wonder if I’ll ever serve as an official juror. A part of me wishes for that opportunity; a part of me thinks it’s highly unlikely (particularly since I would feel honor-bound to state that I’m aware of the concept of jury nullification).

Here’s an older version of the video they show all potential jurors, in the waiting area. The opening judge changes, but the words remain the same (as does Lester Holt).

While I was waiting I re-read a favorite essay by an old undergraduate professor of mine, Scott Russell Sanders – Doing Time in the Thirteenth Chair. It felt like appropriate reading material.

Related:
Jury Duty in Skokie
My Jury Duty Blog Photos – Possible Contempt Of Court Citation
Jury Duty: Step-By-Step Updates