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Accommodating Citizens Called to Jury Service
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15
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AMENITIES TO IMPROVE THE EXPERIENCE OF JURY SERVICE SHOULD BE PROVIDED WHEREVER POSSIBLE.
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Time Spent
Waiting
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One of the primary reasons that citizens are reluctant to serve on juries is the time spent waiting. Courts should aim to provide the following amenities so that prospective jurors may fill their time at the court facility productively and comfortably:
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Juror Assembly Room:
- Business accommodations, such as quiet working areas, telephones, and power and telephone hookups for computers.
- The ability to leave the building (with a court-issued pager).
- Provision for refreshments, such as a microwave oven, vending machine, refrigeration, smoking locations, and coffee.
- Entertainment such as television, magazines, and a videotape player.
- Access to telephones for free local calls.
- Provision of a telephone number where emergency messages can be left for jurors.
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Jury Box:
- The same amenities given to others in the courtroom (a writing area, writing materials, water, and comfortable chairs).
- Assisted hearing devices.
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Jury Deliberation Room:
- A room suitable for the purpose that is private and adequately screened.
- Small refrigerator, microwave oven, water, and coffee.
- Adequate and comfortable seating.
- Assisted hearing devices.
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References:
David C. Brody, et al., Juror Survey Results, 1998-1999, pp. 6-7 (The most common problem mentioned by jurors was the time spent waiting).
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