August 23, 2006

How to avoid jury duty, GUARANTEED.

From my experience today, I can state with certainty that Brazos County Court at Law Judge Jim Locke strongly opposes a fully-informed jury, and I heartily recommend replacing him with someone else during the next judicial election.

During voir dire, the jury selection process, potential jurors are questioned by the prosecuting and defense lawyers. Certain answers, or questions asked, can lead one or the other of the attorneys to strike a potential juror from the list. There is one particular question, though, that will guarantee that both lawyers, as well as the judge, will want to strike you from the list. Simply ask them to explain jury nullification.

It is sadly ironic that a well-informed citizen, who understands the role and responsiblities of a juror according to the Constitution, is considered persona non grata in the jury box. Consequently, our legal system is awash with immoral, pointless, useless, or otherwise bad laws that need to be nullified, if only there were a jury that knew enough to do the job. One solution to this problem might be to ask candidates for judicial seats about their understanding of, and attitude towards, jury nullification. If they're against it, then don't elect them.

Another solution would be to distribute this type of flyer to any and all potential jurors.

Posted by jon at 06:32 AM | Comments (0)