I have had the distinct “pleasure” of servicg jury duty 3 times in the last 12 years. Twice in the NY State system and once in the Federal System.
12 years ago I was called to serve in the state system and after sitting in the “big room” for 2 days waiting to be called (this is Kings County prior to current number/call in system), I was finally called as a potential in a criminal case and was one of the 1st 12 so had to sit in Jury box in the courtroom. I listed to the judge drone on about the case (was a murder trial) and the 2 lawyers talk about their clients, the judge stated it was expected to be a case that went 6-8 weeks and then asked who feels they should be exempt and went through the 1st 12 in the jury box. The automatics went quickly (related to cop, had relative who was shot things like that) but the judge wasnt giving out the exemptions. I tried things like, I recently started a new job, wife was 8 months pregnant, nothing was working. Finally in frustration I blurted out “its not fair, just because this low life shoots someone, I have to jeopardize a new job and sit here for 8 weeks”. That worked wonders. The defense attorney immediately jumped up and wanted me excused for prejudice against his client. Was I ever happy.
The NY State courts in the state of NY on all forms recommend bringing along a laptop or something else to keep you busy “while you wait”. 6 months ago when I was called, I dutifully brought along my laptop (as did 90% of the people there). wouldnt you know it, NO OUTLETS for the power chords. About 90 minutes into the waiting you heard all the battery life warnings and slowly the laptops were closed.