Jury Duty

I am 42 years old, and for the first time in my life, I have been called to jury duty.

I have never understood it when people complain about jury duty. Perhaps I will better see what the belly-aching is about after I experience it firsthand.

One of my favorite movies, which I could watch over and over again, is "12 Angry Men". It was nominated for several Academy Awards in 1957, winning none. However, it is quite an ensemble cast, as you can see from the photo. It's only 96 minutes long and takes place almost exclusively in the deliberating room. Very good, and I recommend you see it.

Now, back to me. I am sure that , since I am actually looking forward to this fulfillment of my civic duty, I will be promptly dismissed. That's just the way it goes. But I intend to live the process fully while I am a part of it.

I have always heard that the attorneys for both sides question potential jurors to eliminate as much bias against their case as possible. This will surely axe me early on. Here is what I anticipate:

Counsel: Do you agree with capital punishment?
Carmen: Hell yes, and I think it should have a drive-through.
Counsel: You are dismissed.

Or perhaps this:

Counsel: What do you think of racial profiling?
Carmen: I think that if 80% of crimes are committed by black people, I am 80% more positive they are the ones that did it. If 80% of terrorists acts are committed by Muslims, I'm not getting on a plan with one.
Counsel: You are dismissed.

Or, finally:

Counsel: Do you personally own a firearm?
Carmen: No, I own several. There is one in my purse right now and if you come at me with a knife, gun, chain or anything else that I feel is a danger, I will shoot you first and ask you about your intentions later. And, if my training was any good, it's God Himself who will be asking you.
Counsel: You are dismissed.

So, here I am: a red-blooded American who is looking forward to jury duty and I doubt I will last until lunch. Damn.