Jury duty

If you vote, pay taxes, register a vehicle, own property, or the like, you probably will be summoned for jury duty someday, most likely in the county where you reside.  Consider it an important civic duty and don't sweat it.  Thomas Jefferson said it was the most important right in a free society.  How does it work?

Read the summons carefully (and bring it with you). Usually, they are pretty good about explaining at least the showing up process, where to park, how to handle your employer, etc.

Once there, your group probably will be shown a 15-minute video explaining the selection process and what to expect if chosen as a trial juror.  Bring a snack, water, something to read while waiting.  Know you'll have to clear courthouse security.  "Hurry up and wait" applies.  

Plan the whole day, but most likely you'll be home before noon.  This is because most trials settle or are continued (postponed) at the last minute.  There will be more potential jurors sitting around than needed, so most end up going home early.  Because most jurisdictions follow the "one day or one trial rule," you can't be summoned for jury duty again for a year.  

If selected as a trial juror, do what you think is best during the deliberations and politely stick to your guns.  Keep an open mind and don't rush to judgment.  It all about justice, and you may be the next person facing the jury.