Typically, a plaintiff will make its demand in the complaint filed at the outset of the case, and a defendant usually will make its demand in an answer to the complaint. If either party asks for a jury, the trial will be by jury.
At a defendant's arraignment, if they enter a "not guilty" plea, there will be several pretrial trial proceedings designed to resolve the case. If a plea bargain is not reached, then the case will proceed to trial.
If you cannot serve even if granted a postponement, you may contact your local commissioner of jurors office and ask to be excused from service. The commissioner may ask you to provide documentary proof of the reasons why you need to be excused.
Any party may demand a trial by jury of any issue triable of right by a jury by (1) serving upon the other parties a demand therefor in writing at any time after the commencement of the action and not later than 10 days after the service of the last pleading directed to such issue, and (2) filing the demand as required ...
Show the jury how you're saving them time by being organized and using summaries, charts, and demonstratives. They will appreciate you—it motivates them to want to return the favor. This doesn't mean you win, but it does mean the jury will listen to you and work to understand your side of the case.
JURIES CAN BE SYMPATHETIC Unlike an impartial judge, the panel of individuals on your jury could be swayed by emotion and personal experience. This may work in your favor. If you have been overcharged for the crime in question or are a sympathetic defendant, some jurors may be more likely to back you.
Any party may demand a trial by jury of any issue triable of right by a jury by (1) serving upon the other parties a demand therefor in writing at any time after the commencement of the action and not later than 10 days after the service of the last pleading directed to such issue, and (2) filing the demand as required ...
After a summons with notice is served, the defendant will demand that the plaintiff serve a complaint. The plaintiff must then have the complaint served within 20 days after being served with the demand, or the case may be dismissed.