Reference services requested.

[hannah]

I've been called to jury duty tomorrow. I don't quite know what it's for, and I'll apparently be a grand juror as well - at least, according to the notice I received. How this differentiates me from a regular juror, I'm not yet sure, but I'll do some research and hopefully come prepared knowing that.

Research into what to do once I get there will be a little harder to manage. Which is why I'm turning to the social portion of the internet for help.

What should I wear? Casual office, formal office, office party? How many things for entertainment should I bring, and will they confiscate any electronics? Will I be allowed to bring my phone? Should I pack a lunch? Stuff like that, for navigating the place. Does anyone who's served as a juror in one capacity or another have something pertinent to share? Trust me, I'd appreciate anything.

Comments

[batdina]

until you're actually seated, no one will confiscate anything you bring with you electronics entertainment wise; bringing your own lunch is probably wise, though most courthouses at least have vending machines if not a full cafeteria.

I cannot remember where you live, but here in California, once you're seated, you get a jury room, and sometimes even a locker so you can put your stuff in it safely. Nothing except the pencil and notepad given to you by the court can be taken into the jury box. (Weedle if you like: I managed to get a second notebook of my own in with me by being nice to the guard.)

Also, wear whatever you like. I recommend comfort over style. I wore black jeans and button downs and/or sweaters the last time I served.

Hope this helps.

[reginagiraffe]

Grand juries decide whether there's enough evidence/cause for a prosecution to go to trial. They can go through more than one case per jury duty. It depends on how complicated the cases are.

Casual office should be fine. No shorts, slinky clothes etc. But you don't have to be super fancy/formal. I'd also dress in layers (i.e short sleeve shirt and a sweater). Sometimes the courts can be boiling or freezing.

I'd pack a lunch or at least a snack. I don't know where your court house is but sometimes there are places around to buy something (McDonalds, Subway etc.) and sometimes not. I'd google the area and see. They usually give you some money (fifteen bucks or so) to pay for lunch and parking. They also usually have a 45-60 minute break for lunch.

They often don't let you bring electronics, esp. phones with recording/photo capability. Again, google your court house. Usually there's a listing of what's allowed.