In some districts the judge selects the foreperson of the jury. In other districts the jurors elect their foreperson and in still other districts the first juror to enter the jury box becomes the foreperson automatically.
Reasons for Being Excused from Jury Service Medical reasons. Public necessity. Undue hardship. Dependent care. Student Status. Military conflict. Other reason deemed sufficient by the court.
Ultimately, it's up to the judge to rule on these issues of law, and decide which evidence can be considered. Therefore, the jurors should only make their decision based on what is seen and heard in the courtroom, and nothing else. Courts have other standard rules, to make sure the entire process is fair and impartial.
Even after a jury trial, a judge may order a new trial if a party proves a juror lied during voir dire and hid something that would have kept him or her off the jury.
If a judge gives the jury the wrong legal standards to apply or otherwise improper instructions, they may find a defendant guilty when they should have reached a different verdict. If the judge in your case gave the jury incomplete or incorrect instructions, you may appeal your conviction and seek a new trial.
Adorn yourself in attire more suited for a day of sightseeing than a courtroom setting. Think Hawaiian shirts, oversized sunglasses, and perhaps a camera slung around your neck for good measure. This look whispers, “I'm just passing through,” potentially making you less appealing to those seeking focused jurors.
A request to be excused must be made in writing to the court that issued the summons and must be supported by appropriate documentation. Requests for excuse should be directed to the Jury Commissioner's Office. Your service is required as a prospective juror for a minimum of one day.
The jury selection process is known as voir dire. During this process, the judge, prosecutor, and defense attorney will ask you questions. Generally, the best way to avoid being picked is to express strong opinions during questioning. Additionally, sometimes, your career may be enough to get you excused.
Medical conditions, deafness, difficult sitting for long periods, people who know the defendant or officers, people who've been victims of crimes, financial hardship, and more will be excused. Depending on the county, they might call 100 people to select just 12.