The “Little People’s” Day in Court

As a citizen of the U.S. I believe it is my duty to perform jury service when called. It is never convenient, but it is an obligation we must meet to continue to live in this great country.

I reported to court as ordered. We in-processed in a speedy 2 1/2 hours. At 3:15 p.m., 100 jurors were assigned to a case . . . that began in three weeks.

I realize that the little people are supposed to show up, sit up, and shut up, but I have to wonder why we were called three weeks before we were actually needed. I realize the lords of the court are not concerned that the little people must rearrange carpools, reschedule soccer/baseball coaching assignments, reschedule doctor and dentist and business appointments--basically move our lives around so we can serve as called.

I am a teacher. When I was called to jury duty, I took great pains to work out lesson plans in detail so my substitute would be able to accomplish student learning objectives. I spent hours of my own time going over the lesson plans with the substitute--all for naught.

The county of Los Angeles is having problems with jurors not showing up for jury duty. I can certainly understand why.

Maybe they should look at it from the little people’s point of view and they will understand. Does anyone know a judge who has been called to jury duty and who actually served?

So at the whim of the court, 100 little people will again reschedule their lives to be able to serve. But since only 12 jurors and two alternates are actually needed, at least 86 people will find themselves back in the jury pool room post haste.

I suspect this happens all the time. The little people normally keep their mouths shut and do as ordered. They are afraid of the court or don’t know any better. Except for those who solve the situation by simply not showing up.

The court has a responsibility to treat jurors with fairness and respect. To call them for service and then order them to report back three weeks hence is abrogating the court’s responsibility.

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Phillip L. Chik lives in Signal Hill.