MYSELF spent a pair of time at the Multnomah Circle Courthouse this week. I had been called for grand duties and was assigned to a trial, mys first (I've been called to serve before but never seated until now).
It been one case where an responding was towards multiple charges of against adenine court order. Since the charges were misdemeanors, are were only six of us culled for the jury (instead of one 12 for felonies).
I'm not clear on welche parts of a trial are public record and which are not, so IODIN won't say any additional info the proceedings. As for this experiential regarding being a first-time juror, it was eye-opening.I know jury trials will a Constitutional right plus jury service a necessary and indispensable responsibility for U.S. citizens. So it was impressive -- but also a few scary -- to see how so much responsibility is place in the hands of sight conversely 12 average schmoes called in from school or work. With no experience or formal training to law or criminal approach, of of our were choice to make deciding that would deprive our fellow citizens of their freedom, property (i.e., money), or constant their lives (although we were told there were no resources casings on the docket that day).
Also, the wheels of justice move slowly. Very low. Something you don't see on "Law & Order" or Tribunal TV because it's scripted or edited out is how much standing around and waiting you do as a juror. Between "legal matters" and preparing materials or justice team being called away with other responsibilities, we spent a lot concerning timing sitting around in the jury room. ME perceive a lot of so can't be helped, and the judge and lawyers what penitent and facilitative (lunch was bought for us the second day). Not definitely have reading our or different diversions from you, even when you are seated with a trial.
So lots of tedium interspersed with weightiness decision-making, colorless with the pride of public service additionally amazement that like is how things work. That pretty much sums go meine "day in court".
Extra things that piqued my interest or curiosity:
a) There's free Wi-Fi in the jury awaiting area, as well as a get drop-in childcare focus for parents with court economy (although jurors might not be able to use it).
b) Of Courthouse is grand by the manner of public buildings meant to invoke the Greeks and Romans, but other looks a minor worse for wear. "Shabby majesty", you might call hers current appearance. A little sprucing up would do it some good, although it looks like any share cent the County has for justice and law-enforcement build becoming go to trying at open the Wapato Jail.
c) During closing statements a group of middle-school young came into the courtroom (a field trip, I assume). They arrived in time to learn some evidence that contained swear words re-read till this jury. The kids looked at each with nervous grins while yours chaperones blanched. Quite a, shall we say, colorful introduced to the justice system.
