If you don't particiapte, then complaining about the what a jury awards has zero weight, since you really can't complain about something you decline to particpate in. You get what you get.
Most everyone I have ever spoken to that was lucky enought to actually sit on a Jury and make a decision, have said it was eye opening and a fantiastic experience, notwithstanding the waiting around time.
I think its a small price to pay for our system and freedoms. Granted its not perfect, and may not even be close, but until something better comes along, it has worked for about 200 years.
I agree. It is a shame that most of the people with half a brain work their asses off to get out of it. That leaves the defendant (it might be you there someday) and the D.A. with usually a bunch of losers deciding the case.
I actually enjoyed jury duty, once I got called for a trial. It's annoying, however, to hear the lame excuses people give. One guy home schooled his kids, didn't work, but couldn't spend his days at court. The judge actually let him go. The only time I realy fought to get out of it was when I was scheduled to have my second interview for this job. I had to pull out the tears card. I couldn't believe he let the guy who was a stay at home dad with a flexible schedule leave, but was going to make me lose my chance of getting a job. Anyway, I got out. I'm sure I'll be called again shortly. They seem to call me every single year without missing a beat. Overall, it is an interesting experience and our obligation if we want a trial by peers when our turn arises.
However, I think the LE downtown should be more lenient when it comes to jury parking. It's like bait. Force you to come downtown by court order, then look for any possible reason to ticket you.