Jury Duty

* Re “Judges’ Plan Cuts Courts’ Backlog,” Aug. 22:

Congratulations to James Bascue, supervising judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Criminal Courts, for cutting down on the backlog of cases by enforcing stricter continuation laws! I served as a juror in November-December 1995, and noticed an improvement in friendliness of the court to jurors. We were given information about why there were delays. We were asked our opinion about how the system could be improved.

Jury service is an essential of our society. Since 1993, Law Advocates of California has published and distributed a booklet on citizenship for high school youth called “When You Become 18.” Over 165,000 booklets have been distributed through social studies classes. The first item is responsibility to serve as a juror, if called.

The state Legislature recently passed SCA4, which would permit superior and municipal courts to consolidate functions to eliminate duplicative or overlapping functions. It will be placed on the November ballot for approval by voters. Help the justice system work by supporting sensible policies and serving as jurors when called.

PAT YEOMANS

Co-President, Law Advocates

of Los Angeles