I responded to a jury summons for the first time this last Monday, and was picked for a murder trial. Actually it is fairly easy not to get picked. The defense said out loud "if you talk you walk" and the prosecution elluded to the same. They don't want people who don't want to be there. They are vey good at spotting the assholes and mal contents. As I was about to learn, they are very adept at picking a good jury panel. It was inconvienient to participate since I own a small business, but it's vitally important to the justice process that you participate. IMHO it is as important as voting, so you shouldn't shirk your duty.
I was actually impressed with the speed of the selection process. The jury pool was 64, they had 12 chosen by 2 PM, we received our instructions from the judge and were released by 5 PM. Court proceedings began Tuesday at 9:30 AM.
If you are chosen for a jury, try to arrive 90 minutes early. Parking is difficult to find after 8 PM. When you arrive at the criminal court house you must then get through the security check (similar to an airport), but when you are wearing a jurors badge you are escorted to the front.
The whole process does not go at all like a trial in a movie or TV series. ANY testimony that can't be corroborated by a third party, is heresay. All the questioning is rather indirect, and every time a witness is on the stand multiple objections are made by the prosecution and defense.
The jury deliberation room is small but has two private bathrooms. You can't leave the room unless the bailiff or judge says so. No coffee was provided, lunch sucks so bring snacks. You don't talk about the trial until after the closing arguments.
The prosecutors were female, attractive, and smart as a whip. The defense average (poor kid from high crime area). When court was in session it was SERIOUS business, and everyone participating in the trial was somber, serious, and intent on doing the right thing. The evidence and testimony was emotionally disturbing, and tears were shed by the gallery and jurors.
The whole experience was exhausting, financially inconvienient, and the commute stressful. That being said, if called upon again next week I would do my duty again. I would drag my ass out of bed at 5:30 AM, make the 90 minute commute, eat the bad food, and greatfully become a cog in the wheel of justice again. Respond to your jury summons, it is important.