Does being a veteran keep you from serving on a jury?

2016-08-30T08:09:37-04:00

I ask because yesterday I was called for jury duty. I was selected to a group of 28 potential jurors who went to a courtroom to be questioned by the judge and lawyers. When questioning revealed that I had served in the military I could see red pens come out on both sides to mark their spreadsheets. Ultimately I wasn't selected, but sure seemed vet status did me in early on in questioning.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Aug 30 at 2016 8:12 AM

2016-08-30T08:12:48-04:00

My best friend from High School was a prosecutor for a long time.he told me Vets were tough. Sometimes very pro police and everyone is guilty but also a lot of folks who believe in the constitution much more seriously than your average American and would free someone on a tiny technicality. Too hard to read so getting us off there was the safe bet.

Response by SGT David T. made Aug 30 at 2016 8:22 AM

2016-08-30T08:22:17-04:00

I'll need to remember this in the event I am called for jury duty lol.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Aug 30 at 2016 8:45 AM

2016-08-30T08:45:57-04:00

"Jury Selection" is what wins a case. Veterans are "Unknowns." We can sway HARD on specific issues (Ethics, Morales, etc), meaning that a well reasoned argument from either side may mean nothing (we won't bend, because we won't be convinced). It is better to "disqualify" us (remove us from the equation) than to risk us. Since we have the potential to affect both sides (prosecution & defense) equally, there's no foul doing do.

I listen to a podcast where a lawyer speaks about jury selection, and in simple terms he refers to it as removing "bias." In your example of 28 people, each lawyer would get X "strikes" for specific reasons (they are biased against the client Positive or Negative depending on the side), and then combined they can remove jurors. The combined ones won't count against the strikes. When all is done, they get down to 12 + alternates (a jury of peers). This is a massive over simplification (as I understand his explanation).

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Aug 30 at 2016 8:46 AM

2016-08-30T08:46:02-04:00

no.

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Aug 30 at 2016 9:04 AM

2016-08-30T09:04:56-04:00

Heck no....had jury duty 2 months ago...lol.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2016 9:12 AM

2016-08-30T09:12:06-04:00

We are the Moral barrier they can not understand. We understand Honor, Duty, Sacrifice, Order, and disciple. We also have a better understanding of the Constitution and Amendments than the average person. This makes us a danger we are not easily swayed by emotional pleas, or easily distracted with court room grandstanding. Most of us have seen the world and been in some situations, so no amount of sob story or (im from a broken home) crap will work on us. look on the bright side, you wont be on jury duty lol.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2016 9:30 AM

2016-08-30T09:30:11-04:00

Both sides afraid you would be too honest? Lawyers don't like honest?

Response by SFC George Smith made Aug 30 at 2016 10:15 AM

2016-08-30T10:15:20-04:00

No But My Big Mouth does...
When I was Called for Jury Duty I was challenged to be Dismissed... So I Challenged the Defense and Prosecuting attorneys...
1 to prove Beyond a Shadow of a doubt The Defendant was Guilty or 2 to provide the Shadow of doubt the Defendant was innocent...
The Judge looked at me and asked "Are You Drunk"... and I responded ... "Not Yet"...
The judge asked Me to leave and instructed the Clerk to Remove My Name from the lists for any further Jury Duty Calls....

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Aug 30 at 2016 10:15 AM

2016-08-30T10:15:47-04:00

Actually they don't like Vets because they follow orders, i.e. apply the yardstick the judge says to apply. They want jurors they can emotionally sway to fudge the line in their favor. They don't want to waste their ammo on a pillbox.

Response by SSgt Boyd Welch made Aug 30 at 2016 10:18 AM

2016-08-30T10:18:55-04:00

Typically, District attorneys and defense attorneys who are paneling a jury look for people who are "malleable" or can be swayed for the plaintiff or defendant. Veterans generally have fixed opinions and playing to emotion doesn't sway them...

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 30 at 2016 1:04 PM

2016-08-30T13:04:53-04:00

You didn't say what the perp was up for, but if it was a vet, they most certainly wouldn't want you. Otherwise, I agree with the general consensus: we're not going to be swayed by theatrical sob stories.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Aug 30 at 2016 1:35 PM

2016-08-30T13:35:59-04:00

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen, it is really beyond me; why you weren't selected to be on the jury. I really do not understand the correlation between a military back round, and serving on a jury. For one thing, you are a professional, and secondly you are a very high caliber leader.
I, for instance, probably could not serve on a jury, because of my service-connected disabilities.
-My Best, Margaret

Response by LTC Tim Ellis made Aug 30 at 2016 1:43 PM

2016-08-30T13:43:10-04:00

It didn't affect my jury duty.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 30 at 2016 3:31 PM

2016-08-30T15:31:26-04:00

No it does not. Jury duty is for all.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2016 7:01 PM

2016-08-30T19:01:55-04:00

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen, A lot of it depends on the type of case. There's certainly some "types" you don't want on your jury ever, and there's some "types" you kick off based on the case itself. Not a real answer, but the best I can give after doing this for a few years.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2016 11:30 PM

2016-08-30T23:30:37-04:00

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen Sir, in my case, my conservative views are probably the biggest reason why I am not selected.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Aug 31 at 2016 6:49 AM

2016-08-31T06:49:52-04:00

I'm a veteran of 4 juries and subsequently 3 convictions and a plea bargain.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Aug 31 at 2016 1:22 PM

2016-08-31T13:22:36-04:00

I was called to Jury Duty 3 times in 3 years when I was stationed at Ft. Bliss, El Paso TX; I was never called before nor since regardless of where I lived. The 1st two times I arrived in my ACUs as did other soldiers also called in, and both times we were thanked for our service and excused en masse. The 3rd time was immediately after I ETSed and left the area, so a phone call cleared that one up.

Apparently there is nothing precluding a service member from serving on a jury--not that I or anyone I know did it--so veteran status wouldn't "officially" stop one from serving on a jury. But as others have noted, there may be specific reasons why being a SM or vet would be problematic as a jury member for either the prosecution or defense depending on the circumstances of the case at hand; although I could see how the details of a given case may also make a vet MORE desirable on the jury for the prosecution or defense (though I bet not by both!).

If I'm ever called again, I'll show up, be willing to do my civic duty if need be, but should my status come up...then good or bad, it comes up.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2016 3:20 PM

2016-08-31T15:20:30-04:00

they probably felt your military background would give you more of a bias toward a particular subject. As such if they felt that could possibly prevent you from voting in favor(or possibly against) the defendant they excused you.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2016 7:07 PM

2016-08-31T19:07:01-04:00

When you go to selection the lawyer who is picking the jurors wants impartial jurors. So this matter of a veteran may well have been a disadvantage for their client because of opposition any or all veterans may cause in a case.

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Aug 31 at 2016 8:30 PM

2016-08-31T20:30:21-04:00

I for one believe the lawyers are looking for an impartial juror, not one that has there decision made before the case has even began

Response by PO3 John Keas made Sep 1 at 2016 1:08 PM

2016-09-01T13:08:42-04:00

It depends on the case...but I have an out. Regardless if I wanted to serve Jury Duty or not.

My sister is a convicted murderer. They never trust I could be objective enough.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2016 1:23 PM

2016-09-01T13:23:48-04:00

I don't think being a veteran keeps you from serving on a jury. As others have stated it depends on the case and what the prosecutor or defense attorney is looking for in a jury.

I've only served on one jury about eight years ago. It was a homicide case. Me and a deputy sheriff were joking that we knew we would never be selected, her because she was a deputy and me because I was a retired Air Force Security Police officer. Normally anyone with law enforcement experience is excluded - I might add for the wrong reasons. People with any kind of law enforcement background, I think, can be more objective.

We were both surprised when we were both selected. I would up being the jury foreman. We wound up convicting the suspect and then recommended the death sentence. I will add that was the hardest form I ever signed in my life where I had to sign stating our sentencing recommendation.

Unbeknown to me or any of the jurors one of the jurors was tweeting about the case. Nothing significant but it didn't make any difference. The defense attorneys found out about it and later the conviction was overturned. The defendant later pled guilty and received a life sentence.

Response by SPC Eric Cunningham made Sep 1 at 2016 1:43 PM

2016-09-01T13:43:15-04:00

Every time I'm called it's while I'm deployed

Response by SGT Tony Clifford made Sep 1 at 2016 1:43 PM

2016-09-01T13:43:35-04:00

Sir, what actually scares me about the process is that they actively seek jurors that lean one way or another on a case. You will never have a jury have a 12 angry men moment. They will usually not be a serious about the jury instructions they receive form the judge. I would demand a trial by judge if i were accused of a crime, because I just don't trust the jurors they select to be a fair and impartial arbiter.

Response by MCPO Chuck Feeney made Sep 1 at 2016 2:09 PM

2016-09-01T14:09:51-04:00

In Illinois, Active Duty are exempt from Jury duty. I was called in 1985, while still AD, and went to the county clerk's office to present my Active Duty I.D. She released me, and I have not been called since (retired in '88)

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2016 4:48 PM

2016-09-01T16:48:05-04:00

I don't know about this. I was selected for Jury Duty when I was on Active Duty - and was chosen to serve. I even ended up as the foreman for a domestic assault trial. Nobody seemed to care. The accused was found not guilty due to crap evidence, though the entire jury thought he did it and would do it again.

Response by SPC James Anderson made Sep 1 at 2016 9:40 PM

2016-09-01T21:40:05-04:00

I was called up while I was in basic, couldnt quite make it. Moved back home after service and I have yet to be called again. I am now 41 living in a rural county in Iowa where everyone knows I served. I think they are ignoring me as to not waste time.

Response by SSgt David Nethken Jr. made Sep 2 at 2016 5:55 AM

2016-09-02T05:55:43-04:00

Being a Vet didn't get me out of Jury Duty, I mentioned that I was Air Force Security Forces. I ended up getting removed from almost every case while on the Grand Jury, but they never let me leave the courthouse. Was a complete waste of my time.

Response by COL Thomas F. made Sep 2 at 2016 9:54 AM

2016-09-02T09:54:22-04:00

In California there is a box you can check on the back of the notice form indicating that you are on active duty and cannot serve. You can also call a number as well. Here is a link for the those serving in Monterey, CA, but it shows the statutes.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made Sep 2 at 2016 10:43 AM

2016-09-02T10:43:07-04:00

Sorry. Couldn't get this scene out of my mind...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5uztpW5xjU

Let's Go To Prison Film Clip #6

Will Arnett, Dax Shepard, Let's Go to Prison In theaters this Friday!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2016 12:44 PM

2016-09-02T12:44:17-04:00

The "perfect juror" is the one who doesn't think too far into the facts and evidence, does not have expertise in anything that will be represented in the upcoming case, and ultimately swayed by the sob story.

Most of the veterans even the ones that ate crayons, aren't that type of material and have wide range of experience and/or knowledge.

Example: As former EMT and 68W, there never will be the time that I will be serving on the jury duty simply for the fact that I have basic knowledge of trauma when it comes to violent crimes or at least mechanism of injury.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2016 6:19 PM

2016-09-09T18:19:03-04:00

Yes it did. Twice I was calling upon to to be on a jury. I have the people in place to cover me and wanted to serve. It was even explained to me that the reimbursement would need to be paid back. Dismissed on both occasions and put on the forbidden list.

Response by CMSgt Gary Fichman made Sep 9 at 2016 10:38 PM

2016-09-09T22:38:09-04:00

Called three times served none. Drug cases-they don't want 0 tolerance folks.

Response by PFC Quentin Pittman made Sep 10 at 2016 10:28 AM

2016-09-10T10:28:56-04:00

I honestly can't believe this. We, as service members, have a stronger sense of knowledge and common sense.

Response by SGT Dan Mo made Sep 10 at 2016 12:18 PM

2016-09-10T12:18:03-04:00

I was selected 3 times in the last 5 years for jury duty. each time i was told that my service was no longer required.

Response by SGT Michelle Lathe made Sep 10 at 2016 1:19 PM

2016-09-10T13:19:18-04:00

I'm both a veteran and licensed attorney, I received a jury summons in April and was not struck from the jury panel (I served as a juror). So I don't think veteran status is an automatic reason for attorneys to strike someone, but it probably depends on the facts of the case.

Response by Sgt Mike Steele made Sep 10 at 2016 1:41 PM

2016-09-10T13:41:08-04:00

No it should not......

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2016 3:36 PM

2016-09-10T15:36:45-04:00

Gee whiz, I was serving on juries when I was still on active duty! I just asked and my supervisor gave me time off to do so. I even thought to wear my uniform for jury duty, but in the end I just wore a civilian suit.

Response by PO2 John Garvin made Sep 10 at 2016 5:00 PM

2016-09-10T17:00:53-04:00

Interesting, been called 4 times, 2 of the times got called in front of the judge and question by lawyers and dismissed both times.

Response by PFC Sheila Harrison made Sep 10 at 2016 5:07 PM

2016-09-10T17:07:11-04:00

It's possible whatever the hearing was for had a contraindication for association with the military. I was selected for jury duty a couple years back but I was no longer a resident of that state so I wasn't required to attend.

Response by SCPO Wesley Worley made Sep 10 at 2016 6:05 PM

2016-09-10T18:05:51-04:00

I haven't been called for jury duty since retiring and returning home.

Response by Bill Talts made Sep 10 at 2016 6:33 PM

2016-09-10T18:33:07-04:00

Technically, there is no barrier which prevents an attorney from using their preemptory strike on a person for being military. Several supreme Court cases have created guidelines where preventing someone from being a jury member based on race, religion, and sex are now in place. The model rules of lawyer ethics recently made it a punishable offense for an attorney to discriminate clients, witnesses, or jurymembers based on Age, Sex, Race, Religion, Gender Identity, or Sexual Orientation. However there is still no rules for career based striking of jurors. The voir dire process (the jury selection process) is very much a strategy game that often leaves the striken jurors feeling unjustly unselected, however, the Attorney's main goal is justice and equal protection for their clients.

*Please note, this is not legal advice.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2016 8:54 PM

2016-09-10T20:54:35-04:00

I had my O5 serve for jury duty not too long ago. I was surprised by it.

Response by PO2 Richard Braud made Sep 10 at 2016 9:15 PM

2016-09-10T21:15:42-04:00

I am imagine it does just like working in a technical and dangerous occupation does. You will get excluded if you are used to dealing with facts and having to act on that.

Response by MSgt David Carroll made Sep 11 at 2016 1:59 AM

2016-09-11T01:59:52-04:00

Not to my knowledge but, then again, I live in a town that strongly supports the military (San Antonio TX).

Response by TSgt Pete Pederson made Sep 11 at 2016 9:17 AM

2016-09-11T09:17:16-04:00

I was selected once since I retired. However at the time the city I live in was a strong military supporter. I have seen a decline in the support, and would agree, we have been places and seen other countries laws and honor the system we have in this fabulous country.

Response by Joanne Collins made Sep 11 at 2016 9:40 AM

2016-09-11T09:40:07-04:00

They don't like vets because the majority of that have been in a life or death situation have learned to think outside of the goverment box.

Response by MSgt Don McArthur made Sep 11 at 2016 9:55 AM

2016-09-11T09:55:17-04:00

It may have, but I believe my being a retired police lieutenant had a much greater part of not being selected.

Response by SGT Ronald Schmidt made Sep 11 at 2016 3:06 PM

2016-09-11T15:06:39-04:00

Sir,
I have absolutely no doubt that I would be excused for the same reasons.
1969-1971 Vietnam Ameircal Division

Response by CPO William A. Bullard Jr. made Sep 11 at 2016 3:22 PM

2016-09-11T15:22:14-04:00

No, although I was bounced in jury selection for a murder trail; I showed up in suit and tie and was told later by a court bailiff that I looked like "...the typical angry white male...'

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Sep 11 at 2016 3:46 PM

2016-09-11T15:46:38-04:00

Nope my contempt for the legal system does.
Ask me to serve in the justice system and I would be there.

Response by TSgt Melisa Weaver made Sep 11 at 2016 3:53 PM

2016-09-11T15:53:28-04:00

I served on jury duty a few years ago. I feel I was selected because of my time in the military.

Response by Cpl Eric Dale made Sep 11 at 2016 4:34 PM

2016-09-11T16:34:31-04:00

I was selected for jury duty a couple of month's after returning from Iraq in 2009. My military service wasn't an issue nor even questioned at that time.

Response by COL William Oseles made Sep 11 at 2016 4:45 PM

2016-09-11T16:45:13-04:00

At times the fact you have been part of the Non-Judicial system or served on a Courts Martial seems to be a factor in not being selected. The one time I came to the down select I was ruled out because I managed R&D contracts, some of which went over a million dollars - it was a fraud case.

Response by Gary Pruett made Sep 11 at 2016 5:17 PM

2016-09-11T17:17:04-04:00

In my persona opinion, being denied service on a jury because you're active duty military or a veteran smacks of blatant discrimination and bias. It would also be a denial of a person's right to the impaneling of a fair and impartial jury for their trial. However, having said that, there's also the old legal saw of "Money Talks and BS Walks"........

Response by SGT Evelyn Kelley made Sep 11 at 2016 6:11 PM

2016-09-11T18:11:27-04:00

The first time I went in uniform, I was dismissed. The 2nd time I was retired I had to stay.

Response by CPT Jerry Lucas made Sep 11 at 2016 6:33 PM

2016-09-11T18:33:06-04:00

It may have more to do with your rank than veteran status as a whole. I went through a similar situation as a potential juror in a criminal trial. The defense attorney asked me if I had ever imposed Article 15 punishment upon any of my soldiers. I replied that I had. He then asked the judge to dismiss me for cause.

Response by PFC Zach Novotny made Sep 11 at 2016 6:54 PM

2016-09-11T18:54:02-04:00

Military personnel are to put it very simply emotionally controlled through our training... Let me expand on that, to win some cases the facts alone aren't enough to convince a jury at that point the attorneys try to create an emotional response. We (unfortunately at times) have been taught to turn away from emotions in order to focus on logic and reason. Makes us great in the working environment but not so much when someone tries to sell us on their opinions.

Response by Sgt Rex Byars made Sep 11 at 2016 7:10 PM

2016-09-11T19:10:04-04:00

I served a county jury for a criminal case once about 3 years ago. I have also been a county voting precinct poll worker and am now on the county grand jury. I was asked about military service. However, my service was during cold war semi-peacetime period (80-86). I do not know if that made a difference or if county being surrounded by national mountain range/forest did. It is mostly retired citizens here.

Response by PO1 Gary Miller made Sep 11 at 2016 7:49 PM

2016-09-11T19:49:34-04:00

I'm not sure if specifically being a veteran prevented me, but I also work in law enforcement. I believe its the combination of the two that prevented me.

Response by MCPO Charles Barnes made Sep 11 at 2016 7:56 PM

2016-09-11T19:56:13-04:00

This bad and good....bad for the system and good for the vet.

Response by PO2 Robert Hardacre made Sep 11 at 2016 8:54 PM

2016-09-11T20:54:05-04:00

Not so far

Response by SPC Daniel Putorek made Sep 11 at 2016 9:28 PM

2016-09-11T21:28:47-04:00

My question then is why not make all members a vet and make the judicial system truly prove innocence.

Response by Sgt Arrynn Cox made Sep 11 at 2016 10:29 PM

2016-09-11T22:29:32-04:00

When jury's are selected they have to have things in common with both victim and defendant. More than likly it was just because they didnt serve in the arm forces

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2016 10:49 PM

2016-09-11T22:49:57-04:00

I was summoned for jury duty in 2006. Both the defense and prosecution seemed pleased with my status as a service member. I don't know if that was a significant factor, but I was ultimately selected. Of course my example is only anecdotal, so ymmv.

Response by Sgt Jeff Sleep made Sep 11 at 2016 10:52 PM

2016-09-11T22:52:28-04:00

I'm surprised both sides disqualified you. Logically the element one side objects to, the other side approves of. If the court is looking for a jury of peers, you probably failed at being enough of a dumb-ass to be considered a peer of the defendant.

Response by SPC Cleta Kawa made Sep 11 at 2016 11:37 PM

2016-09-11T23:37:24-04:00

That doesn't suprise me

Response by SPC Cleta Kawa made Sep 11 at 2016 11:37 PM

2016-09-11T23:37:54-04:00

I've been selected from Jury duty 3 times and not once been picked.

Response by PV2 Amy Murphy made Sep 12 at 2016 12:02 AM

2016-09-12T00:02:10-04:00

My ex-husband and I are both vets, he has served on juries, he served on 2 earlier this year

Response by Maj Cara Marion made Sep 12 at 2016 1:53 AM

2016-09-12T01:53:02-04:00

I'm 46, retired, and have NEVER been called for jury duty...ever! Hum?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 8:16 AM

2016-09-12T08:16:51-04:00

I served on a jury for arson. They didn't like that I swayed the vote in the end. I paid too much attention to detail. I didn't just assume the guy was guilty because of his economic status or the fact that he had 7 lighters (all broken) on him at the time of the arrest. I agree with most of the other posts, we are the unpredictable wild card. We stand for honor, integrity, etc., as well as having a firmer grasp on our constitutional rights. I tend to believe that if more vets were allowed to serve on a jury, mute justice would be served. Just my opinion.

Response by Lt Col Det Rost made Sep 12 at 2016 8:29 AM

2016-09-12T08:29:15-04:00

I never even made it past the holding pen. Even civilians are primarily used as a threat to get a plea...that said if I were a criminal I would be scared of a vet being on the jury if I knew I was guilty due to their moral compass.

Response by PO1 William Wingate made Sep 12 at 2016 9:21 AM

2016-09-12T09:21:16-04:00

I was recently called for Jury duty on a Federal Case involving a former Military member of the Military being tried for possessing and distribution of Child Pornography, while they (the Lawyers) were questioning us, we were asked if we hadever sat on a jury and several of us stated never served in a civil trial, but on sevetal court martials, then the Judge interrupted and asked how many out of the 56 person jury pool had served in the military and over half of the room raised their hands. In the end there were 7 former members of the military on the jury, and in my opinion that is what led to the perpetrator to cop a plea for which he was sentenced to 240 years to be served concurrently.

Response by CPL Brooke Champ made Sep 12 at 2016 10:20 AM

2016-09-12T10:20:53-04:00

Do you know, Ive been dismissed from jury duty twice, and I never considered that might be the reason. But it makes sense that, as others are saying, we are a risk because we tend to draw a hard line on things.

Response by Rene James made Sep 12 at 2016 10:27 AM

2016-09-12T10:27:35-04:00

Being a civilian I believe most vets have a very defined "line in the sand" they are not willing to cross. Things like responsibility for accepting the consequences of one's actions, being loyal to the laws of the country they serve, and to always try to keep the rights of the victims in mind and refusing stupid excuses. I.e.- I was abused, poor, high, mad, expressing my own rights to the detriment of others, etc. Most military family's set a high standard on loyalty, honesty and self-responsibility. IMO- Judges, prosecutors and defense attorney's want minds that are easy to change or sway. Vets don't live with that mind set. So, yes I thing jury duty is trying to rid itself of the moral standards most veterans have. Just MHO.

Response by Sgt Ken Reed made Sep 12 at 2016 10:53 AM

2016-09-12T10:53:08-04:00

It seems to be in the affirmative for me. I am 60 years old and have never been called. My wife has been called at least 5 times that we could recall.

Response by Sgt John Steinmeier made Sep 12 at 2016 12:38 PM

2016-09-12T12:38:31-04:00

Quite possibly yes since I was Security Forces and worked more Law Enforcement than airfield and systems security. More likely I did a short stint with a local law enforcement agency and my former spouse was a deputy for 13 years. Been called three times and sent home three times even before I warmed my chair up after checking in.

Response by SGT Jim Osborne made Sep 12 at 2016 12:54 PM

2016-09-12T12:54:12-04:00

I'm an expert in forensics (M.S. and 20+ years), I will never be allowed to serve because I know to much.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 1:38 PM

2016-09-12T13:38:38-04:00

I'm not trying to disregard any comments. However, you could also see how jury duty is a public service and as such we have already paid our "societal dues" so they are giving you a pass as a thank you.

Response by SPC James Cook made Sep 12 at 2016 2:02 PM

2016-09-12T14:02:52-04:00

Probably had more to do with your jurisdiction and those lawyers than with your status as a veteran.

Response by SSG Mike Oshaughnessy made Sep 12 at 2016 2:05 PM

2016-09-12T14:05:23-04:00

We get trained to control our emotions, to think rationally, and to make the best decisions based on the available information. These qualities really wreck havoc on an attorney's wins and losses record.

Response by SMSgt Kevin Bishop made Sep 12 at 2016 2:06 PM

2016-09-12T14:06:41-04:00

I have served on several juries and have been "thanked and dismissed" from several as well. I knew the defense attorney in one of the cases. (loosely, as my wife is an attorney and knew him from bar functions) I asked him why he kicked me off. He said, that I 'talked too much.' He explained that he did not want the jurors listening to other jurors but, primarily to him and his arguments. I think that leaders, military or civilian, often get dismissed. Sometimes a defense attorney or a prosecutor with a weak case, does not have enough challenges to boot you over even less desirables so you make the cut. A prosecutor with a strong case may what you. Jury selection is an art and not a science. Often they go with their gut.

Response by PO1 Robert Closson made Sep 12 at 2016 2:40 PM

2016-09-12T14:40:47-04:00

I live here in Florida Pasco county I have been called up for jury duty three times since I have been retired from the Navy. Out of those three times I have been selected twice here where I live they are very conservative and the prosecutor smiles like a big dog when they see vet status. Not that I really care to do jury duty I feel I have given 20yrs and thats enough but it is my duty if called. It is great to watch the elderly here race to the court house most of them are the greatest generation and they get so disappointed when they don't get to sit on a jury. this is why I love living in God's waiting room.

Response by MSgt Bill Mullen made Sep 12 at 2016 3:12 PM

2016-09-12T15:12:01-04:00

No. I have as a Vet served on 4 jury's in the past 15 years. I was also always selected as jury foreman. They always said they wanted me to be foremen because I would keep everything in order, and by the letter of the law with my training. The only time's I was not selected for a jury was when the case involved Murder, ( 3 different times ) and anything to do with a gun as my background was in Munitions.

Response by SPC Dave Behrens made Sep 12 at 2016 3:40 PM

2016-09-12T15:40:38-04:00

The last time I was called most of us knew a about the case because it had been on the news a lot. Guy gets in argument with girlfriend about drugs and money, one of them has a knife, she ends up stabbed like 20 times. So the defense attorney is asking us if we can keep an open mind about things like how he has a disease (addiction) and this could have affected his perception and judgment and maybe he didn't really mean to stab her 20 times. And I don't think I was able to keep my poker face in place because about .3 seconds later I was the first one out of there. Have me the impression that they're looking for the same type of people you could sell a bridge in Brooklyn to.

Response by SSG Nicholas Woodson made Sep 12 at 2016 3:41 PM

2016-09-12T15:41:39-04:00

The first time I got a summons I was recruiting in my home town. I'm back in the area now....have been for 13 years. haven't see a summons since. They don't even want to talk to us and like someone said...if you're educated they REALLY don't want you. The community barely puts up with us in a lot of ways so it really shouldn't come as a surprise. The expect us to all be very conservative, disciplined and for some reason the think that we don't get civilians. They have that backwards.

Response by SGT James Eldridge made Sep 12 at 2016 4:27 PM

2016-09-12T16:27:33-04:00

Easy answer. No! But you can talk your way out of it.

Response by CPL Michael Martinez made Sep 12 at 2016 4:55 PM

2016-09-12T16:55:06-04:00

I was once called for Jury Duty for a case of assault on a police officer and police brutality was being told to the jury. They asked me if I felt with being a Military Police Officer, would I be able to view the case unbiased, I said "definitely."

I was dismissed on the first round of people being dismissed. I think I was a double threat to both sides because of being a soldier and an MP.

Response by SGT John Galbraith made Sep 12 at 2016 4:56 PM

2016-09-12T16:56:15-04:00

I have never been called up for jury duty and have wondered why when people around me have. I don't really need to know why either. I feel like asking is kind of like asking the teacher why she didn't assign homework. It may be asking for trouble.

Response by LTC Brian Croteau made Sep 12 at 2016 5:04 PM

2016-09-12T17:04:01-04:00

I was selected twice. First time was not long after getting off active duty. At my last duty station (Ft. Irwin) I was on the Court Martial Panel duty roster. Sat as "jury" on 10 or so cases in a year. They spent more time grilling me on "did I understand the difference between military system & civilian system. "I am, after all, a college graduate..." I said.

Response by SPC Barbara (Crocker) Carlson made Sep 12 at 2016 5:05 PM

2016-09-12T17:05:34-04:00

Because of svc connected disability, I am permanently excused from jury duty.

Response by Sgt Donald Hayhurst made Sep 12 at 2016 5:53 PM

2016-09-12T17:53:45-04:00

No. Not since I have retired, I have not been called

Response by SSG Keith Frost made Sep 12 at 2016 6:03 PM

2016-09-12T18:03:25-04:00

I served on a jury trial for drunk driving. I wanted to go home so when asked I told them I was an MP and involved in many DUI cases and was a breathalyzer operator. They kept me, I was surprised. After the trial I figured the defense kept me because the defendant was a cops adult son, but they tried to cover it up. Just they thought I would be sympathetic, they were wrong.

Response by SGT Josh Johnson made Sep 12 at 2016 6:11 PM

2016-09-12T18:11:39-04:00

I am 42, I have not yet had the honor if being called on to perform my civic duty; yet my wife has been on multiple occasions. I wonder, now, if they disqualify me before they even send out the invitations for jury duty.

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Sep 12 at 2016 6:26 PM

2016-09-12T18:26:52-04:00

John,

I have always registered to vote wherever I have lived. Not once has my name ever came close to being called for jury duty; however, like you I suspect I won't be selected even if called for jury duty. Not only do I suspect I would be disqualified because my 30 years of active duty but also because of my 10-1/2 years as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer! Too bad; if any one group of people who would make excellent jurors (as a group) it would be Veterans...

Thanks for your service.

Response by PO2 Jon Van Dop made Sep 12 at 2016 6:53 PM

2016-09-12T18:53:13-04:00

I'll be called for jury duty next month. I'll let you know how it goes.

Response by PO2 Loren Gilmore made Sep 12 at 2016 7:09 PM

2016-09-12T19:09:45-04:00

I have served on one jury and have been selected for jury duty twice after serving. I am a Navy veteran and was serving with a Nuclear Security Force on all three of them. Working hand in hand with the local Sheriffs Office that didn't keep me out of the first one but did the other two. I do agree with some of the comments that have been posted about veterans are more aware of judicial procedures and honor, respect for people and property. Knowledge is key and don't you folks ever forget that. It is an honor to serve and will do so gladly again.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 7:09 PM

2016-09-12T19:09:54-04:00

Thats good jury duty sucks I heard. I got selected to be on a jury also and through the selection process I was released to. I dont think it had to do with being a veteran, but had to do with my age. I was 25 at the time and it appears they wanted an older jury.

Response by MSgt David Guenther made Sep 12 at 2016 7:46 PM

2016-09-12T19:46:06-04:00

I have been chosen, then at the last minute the case was settled before bringing in the jury.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 9:11 PM

2016-09-12T21:11:39-04:00

I was selected to be a juror last year here in Augusta ga. I even went in uniform. They asked me where I lived I told them I lived in a hotel with my wife, 2 kids (one with cancer and was radioactive) and 2 dogs. They still selected me.

Response by SGT Eliyahu Rooff made Sep 12 at 2016 9:20 PM

2016-09-12T21:20:32-04:00

I've been called for jury duty many times, but was never selected. I think it had to do with my job as a criminal defense paralegal, though, and not being a veteran. Prosecutors generally like having military retirees on a jury.

When prosecutors keep a veteran on the jury, they don't always think about what they're getting. We had a case where our client was charged with DUI. There was a retired Navy CPO on the jury, and during voir dire, the prosecutor asked him if he'd served on any courts martial (he had) and if they'd convicted (they had). His mistake was stopping with the questions there, as he knew that our client had been on the crew of the USS Pueblo and that it would come out in trial that the license plate on his car said "Former Prisoner of War". He had no idea of how much emotional baggage the Navy still has over the Pueblo incident or that there's no way in hell that a veteran is going to send a POW to jail for anything short of premeditated murder. Jury was out for eight minutes before coming back with a not-guilty verdict. Admittedly, the evidence was kinda weak in the first place, but we'd never seen deliberations that short before.

Response by SMSgt Bob Hall made Sep 12 at 2016 10:37 PM

2016-09-12T22:37:54-04:00

I served on a jury and was selected as the foreman. I would assume that it comes down to the lawyers on both sides, not just a blanket rule that vets will be denied.

Response by SPC Jon Rogers made Sep 12 at 2016 10:55 PM

2016-09-12T22:55:10-04:00

I have served on several Juries but was not asked if I was a veteran. If this is a selection criteria I would be most concerned.

Response by SPC Kc Beck made Sep 12 at 2016 11:13 PM

2016-09-12T23:13:27-04:00

Yes, unless, there are more vets than strikes, in which case the defense will try to push for a mistrial.

The veneer is supposed to be made of a collection representing the community, a veteran, a police officer, a firefighter, will guarantee that there is integrity, they don't want that

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 11:30 PM

2016-09-12T23:30:08-04:00

I have served on juries, even though I was a CID Agent when I served and another time when I was a law enforcement officer in another jurisdiction. The defense asked a number of qualifying questions but none that addressed military service. He did ask about people we knew in the county sheriff's office, but I just answered honestly. I'm pretty sure he never realized I was a sworn LEO and would soon be the jury foreman. Things did not go well for his client.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2016 11:54 PM

2016-09-12T23:54:56-04:00

I was called for jury duty right after my last deployment in 2013. I thought for sure I was going to get eliminated. Nope, they both kept me and my jury group selected me as the foreperson. We found the defendant innocent.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2016 12:47 AM

2016-09-13T00:47:22-04:00

Lawyers hate folks with integrity.

Response by PO2 Christopher Hurlbut made Sep 13 at 2016 1:57 AM

2016-09-13T01:57:23-04:00

I have been called to jury duty twice. Once before and once after my enlistment. The first time, the charges never went to trial. The second time, I went through the whole deal. The defendant ended up being innocent on that charge, assaulting a peace officer. All she did was touch the LEOs wrist and stepped in front of him and was asking why her mom was getting arrested. The reason she got off, by definition, the person has to have the intention of causing physical harm, or be insulting, if I remember right. She did not have that intention, therefore innocent of that charge.

Response by PO2 Mark Evans made Sep 13 at 2016 2:24 AM

2016-09-13T02:24:25-04:00

I'm curious what the trial was for as I have been called three times, served twice, once as foreman. Never ask about military service.

Response by TSgt Sylvia Powell made Sep 13 at 2016 2:59 AM

2016-09-13T02:59:29-04:00

I live close to a military installation. I have been selected for jury duty never having been asked even one question. Was told by judge she was envied because we Vets take jury duty very seriously and show up.

Response by Sgt Red Ford made Sep 13 at 2016 3:36 AM

2016-09-13T03:36:21-04:00

I was picked for the jury and they elected me forman because I had military experience. I guess I should have stressed my veteran background earlier in the process. Would have saved me from hours of listening to lawyer BS trying get a guy off who had clearly been driving drunk.

Response by COL David Turk made Sep 13 at 2016 6:37 AM

2016-09-13T06:37:57-04:00

I was called while on active duty. Wore my class B's, during the selection process. Didn't make it to a jury, but was in the standby pool for the rest of the week.

Response by PO2 Christopher Morehouse made Sep 13 at 2016 7:13 AM

2016-09-13T07:13:44-04:00

As a defense attorney, I believe I can answer this in a lawyerly fashion: it depends. If the charge and facts are anything where the person should have just been following the rules and he would have been fine, then I don't want a veteran on the jury. If it is a situation where the guy exhibits a supreme lack of common sense such that he deserves what is coming to him, then I don't want a veteran on the jury. But, if the guy was doing what appeared to be normal behavior and circumstances conspired to put him in that position, then I would prefer to have a veteran due to their sense of fairness and understanding that there are times when the book doesn't cover every situation and exceptions need to be made.

Response by Sgt Michael Texeira made Sep 13 at 2016 7:53 AM

2016-09-13T07:53:47-04:00

I don't know for sure but it is a suspicion. I have been selected a few times to participate in jury pool but never selected as an actual juror

Response by MSgt Frank Martin made Sep 13 at 2016 8:19 AM

2016-09-13T08:19:15-04:00

That is funny.
I went on Jury duty eight years ago, I identified myself as retired military, having testified at some military court martials, worked as a part-time law enforcement officer in another state for three years while serving. This was a criminal court case and I figured I would be culled from consideration during the interview. I was surprised to find out I was the first person picked and ended up being on the jury for three days.

Right this moment I am on Jury Duty in same County, I was not called into a courtroom yesterday but I still have to do it today.. time will tell.

But I agree with you.. some Lawyers appear to be afraid of veterans because we look at the laws as laws to be obeyed because we were taught to follow regulations. Some think that laws are meant to be interpreted.

Response by LTC Alan Murphy made Sep 13 at 2016 9:13 AM

2016-09-13T09:13:37-04:00

Almost all attorneys are Democrat........The goal is to break down the fabric of America, ignore the Constitution and create activists judges......You as a military member are considered a Patriot or Nationalist.....Patriots and Nationalists are now the enemy within America..... You made an oath to support and defend the constitution which is bad..... In the "New America" the "Old Stock Americans" are the enemy and marginalized as a threat to the "New Americans" globalists agenda. Ask yourself when you were in the courthouse where did you see the Constitution openly displayed!!!!!! The same thing happened in Russia during the Bolshevik Revolution (Holodomor) when Marxists, Communists, Socialist started marginalizing the "Old Stock Nationalist/Patriot" Russians, demonized capitalism, ignored their Constitution and initiated a media propaganda campaign full of nothing but lies against the Nationalists/Patriots/Capitalists/Constitutionalist..... In Russia the 20 to 60 Million "Old Stock" Nationalists/Patriots/Constitutionalists Russians were all rounded up murdered/starved to death.....During the Russian Holodomor gun owners were convinced to turn in their guns and then a couple week later after turning in their guns the communists came back and shot them and their whole family.....Sadly it appears our current military leadership is weak, being reprogrammed and incapable of recognizing the current internal threat right here in America of those who are undermining our Constitution and national sovereignty......

Response by LCpl Allen Luze made Sep 13 at 2016 9:22 AM

2016-09-13T09:22:54-04:00

The only issue that I had when I was called for jury duty was that after the Marine Corps I went to college and received a degree as a paralegal and that I had worked for a public defender for the neighboring county. The attorneys were more intent on that than they were about my military service. Ultimately during the month that I was on call I ended up on the jury for 3 separate one day trials

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2016 10:30 AM

2016-09-13T10:30:01-04:00

Nope. Between my tours of active duty I served on juries twice.

Response by TSgt Allen Jones made Sep 13 at 2016 10:52 AM

2016-09-13T10:52:39-04:00

i was never called while on active duty. i have served since retirement.

Response by TSgt Joseph Crosby made Sep 13 at 2016 10:54 AM

2016-09-13T10:54:48-04:00

I am still in a function of law enforcement that keeps me out of being selected not my veteran status.

Response by SSG Pedro Berrios made Sep 13 at 2016 11:08 AM

2016-09-13T11:08:36-04:00

I have been called like 10 time and selected 1 time .

Response by MAJ Eric Neumann made Sep 13 at 2016 11:12 AM

2016-09-13T11:12:30-04:00

It may be a local thing or it may have been for a trial where being a vet would give you a certain bias in that particular case. I was selected and then appointed Foreman. I know a couple of other vets that have served on jury duty as well.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2016 11:56 AM

2016-09-13T11:56:57-04:00

I've only been called once, it was out in California. The court would not excuse me just because I was on Active duty, though I was eventually not selected. I read the comments others have posted, and wonder if you are asked about military service more often in counties tgat tend to lean more left in politics?

Response by Denise Rhodes made Sep 13 at 2016 12:19 PM

2016-09-13T12:19:52-04:00

Considering it's a lawyer's duty to get his client a vote of not guilty. Veterans are less likely to fall for a "boo hoo poor me story." and are less likely to have a no tolerance policy for drama inside the courtroom.

Response by MAJ Karl Smith made Sep 13 at 2016 12:23 PM

2016-09-13T12:23:15-04:00

IMO because we are instilled with moral courage. We aren't swayed by emotions or fear when we know something's ate up. I've been corrected by an E4 when I was a Mortar PLT leader because something wasn't safe. He was right, and I'm glad he had the balls to tell me so.

Response by PO1 John Plaza Jr made Sep 13 at 2016 1:27 PM

2016-09-13T13:27:02-04:00

No it doesn't keep you from serving on a jury. I just spent nine days on a Special Criminal Grand Jury for the State of California and was also elected as the jury foreman. I was the last alternate to be called into the box and was asked the same questions everyone else was asked and even mentioned I was a 20 year veteran and was thanked for my service by both the Deputy Attorney General and the judge. In the long run 13 of us brought back indictments on 6 individuals that also ended up being issued arrest warrants and bonds set at $4.5M for each of them on 181 counts in the indictment.

Response by SSgt Bernard Howard made Sep 13 at 2016 1:37 PM

2016-09-13T13:37:08-04:00

I served jury duty on a robbery case, after I told them I was an Air Force security police veteran. The defendant was found guilty. I was also the only African American Male on the jury. The defendant was also AA.

Response by PO1 Kyle Crippen made Sep 13 at 2016 2:34 PM

2016-09-13T14:34:53-04:00

I have servered on Grand Jury, my military status was never asked.

Response by PO2 Michael Sayre made Sep 13 at 2016 2:37 PM

2016-09-13T14:37:48-04:00

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say because they are to be tried by a jury of thier peers.

I'm of the opinion that by swearing the oath and serving honorably we are therefore superior.

Response by SP6 Charles Cox made Sep 13 at 2016 3:19 PM

2016-09-13T15:19:02-04:00

Whenever I've been called I've been dismissed, but that's because I was a lawyer: the last thing anybody -- I mean anybody, either side -- wants on a jury. I've never seen anyone dismissed because they were a veteran. In fact, I've never seen that status come up unless, of course, it had some pertinence to the case.

(P.S. Whenever my wife gets called, I tell her if she doesn't want to serve, she should just sit there with her knitting and repeat the word, "Guillotine . . . guillotine" over and over, punctuated by a crazed chuckle.)

Response by CPO Ronald Jackson made Sep 13 at 2016 3:45 PM

2016-09-13T15:45:43-04:00

I think that veterans hold values dearly. Much more dearly than most civilians do. Under the UCMJ we could be punished for things that civilians laugh off as old fashioned. They, the lawyers were afraid that you would follow the letter of the law and not the fabrications of the lawyers.

Response by SSG Ken Lohmann made Sep 13 at 2016 3:53 PM

2016-09-13T15:53:32-04:00

Been in the Jury Pool three times:

1st for a Civil case suing an insurance company -- was asked if I had ever hurt anyone were I replied that I was a combat vet and yes. Dismissed

2nd time for a capital murder case where the prosecuting attorney asked me if I could sentence a man to death, my replie was that if I found him guilty I would bring the rope and chair. Dismissed.

3rd time was never called out of the pool.

Response by TSgt Denise Moody made Sep 13 at 2016 4:11 PM

2016-09-13T16:11:09-04:00

The one and only time I was called for jury duty I actually volunteered for it. I was selected sent in three different groups for voir dire. I was selected for one trial. Of the other two the defense didn't like me on one and the prosecution on the other. I doubt my being a veteran had anything to do with it. More my attitude ;)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 13 at 2016 4:36 PM

2016-09-13T16:36:03-04:00

Being a vet doesn't keep you from serving on a Jury but don't be surprised if you don't make selection regardless of service record as only a small percentage of people who they call for jury duty will fit the profile that both the prosecution and defense will be looking for.

Response by SSgt Stephen Mills made Sep 13 at 2016 5:00 PM

2016-09-13T17:00:30-04:00

They would rather use people that aren't smart enough to get out of jury duty, to make a decision on a persons fate.

Response by SGT Joseph Miller made Sep 13 at 2016 7:11 PM

2016-09-13T19:11:57-04:00

I've been called three times for jury duty and all three times we got to the question of what I did in the military ? me: I spent 15 years as a military police officer, them: thank you Mr Miller your services won't be needed

Response by CPO Norman Mauldin made Sep 13 at 2016 7:13 PM

2016-09-13T19:13:48-04:00

I haven't been asked to report except once, I told them bring that guilty SOB in and we'll try him, hang him and be home in time for dinner. Dismissed and haven't been called again. Now my better half who is retired also, has served on two murder trials.

Response by LTC Marcy Dupre made Sep 13 at 2016 7:15 PM

2016-09-13T19:15:17-04:00

I was called for jury duty, and went to the court house for selection. In the first round, each potential juror was called by number and questioned. When it came my turn, I stood up to address the attorneys and the judge. I was the only one who did so. The judge asked if I had served in the military, and I said that I had. The next question was, "How long did you serve?" I heard a gasp when I answered, "Thirty-six years, your honor." She thanked me for serving and called the next potential juror. After we filed out, I was told that I had been dismissed. Never did get an explanation as to WHY I was dismissed...

Response by PO2 Christopher Miller made Sep 13 at 2016 7:31 PM

2016-09-13T19:31:01-04:00

I was selected for jury duty and served as the Jury Foreman (voted on by the rest of the jury) it was a great honor. I did so with pride and did not want to duck out of jury duty as a lot of ppl do. I did not want any of these ppl that made up excuses to get out of JD making legal or moral decisions on what was allowed in my community. Listen to the facts and respond accordingly based on the direction of the Judge. There were other jurors that didn't want to convict because they didn't want the guy to go to jail. NOT our role.. our role was to determine guilt or innocence. not what the punishment was. The guy was convicted of Rape and imprisonment. I was the only juror to show up for sentencing and it turns out it was not his first time.

Response by MCPO David Louden made Sep 13 at 2016 7:32 PM

2016-09-13T19:32:51-04:00

Go, figure LTC. While assigned to the Defense Language School in an DoD E9 billet, I was called to serve in a civil case in Salinas. I served. And, as I received a government salary, it cost the good people of Monterey County and California zippo. If California had no problem back in 1997, not sure why your current state would, unless of course the judge tolerates discrimination based on service to our country. You just might want to sent that up to your state's attorney general. Perhaps, we may wish to close out bases in that state. As I like to tell folks, "you want it bad, you get it bad."

Response by 1LT Lydia Hales made Sep 14 at 2016 1:50 AM

2016-09-14T01:50:17-04:00

I was called for jury duty a couple of times. One was before I went into the military. I was seated on that one. It was a civil case.

The second one was six years ago. I was a vet from active duty and was currently in the reserves.
The first lawyer asked where I worked: the VA. Was I in the military? What did I do in the military? Social worker. You literally could see both sides brains smoking trying to figure out just how I'd be- bleeding heart or hard nose. I kept my "therapist face." (I've seen or heard everything. Nothing will surprise me).
I didn't on that jury-criminal case.

I was called for another civil case that week. I got seated for that one.

Response by PO3 Adam Finley made Sep 14 at 2016 3:35 AM

2016-09-14T03:35:30-04:00

It would seem this is a common thing and here I thought it was just my shining personality. I was called to just duty when I was just fresh out of the military and to top it off I was working in the prison system. I was called and asked a few questions and then we went on break....they didn't boot me right away, I actually guess I looked promising to them. We come back from break and they find out I was military, then added I worked at a prison....out the door I went.

Response by SGM James McCullough made Sep 14 at 2016 7:17 AM

2016-09-14T07:17:00-04:00

In my experience Yes! When the attorney for the plaintiff in a wrongful termination suit asked if I could award damages for pain and suffering I replied with "yes if you can prove it. He seemed surprised and asked what I meant. I told him that if his client had been injured that there were treatment records to verify what he was treated for. If he suffered mentally was he seen by a psychiatrist and prescribe medication for his pain an suffering? The lawyer then asked that I be removed from consideration as a juror.

Response by CPL Todd Albert made Sep 14 at 2016 8:21 AM

2016-09-14T08:21:04-04:00

It just seems to me (in my county anyway) that almost all cases are plea bargained anymore. It costs to much money to go to trial so guilty individuals get off with just a very small portion of the sentence they deserve usually. It really bothers me that criminals get off lightly because a city, county, state, or federal court can't even afford what attorneys charge today.

Response by CH (MAJ) Roy Twaddell made Sep 14 at 2016 9:43 AM

2016-09-14T09:43:33-04:00

I was picked twice and I was an active Pastor, Military Chaplain and Veteran. I know the prosecutor was fine with by selection, but the Defense Attorney asked very pointed questions. I was surprised to learn later from a court official I know that lawyers general don't like Clergy and Military/Veterans because of their strong ethical codes.

Response by MSgt Michael Vassallo made Sep 14 at 2016 9:52 AM

2016-09-14T09:52:49-04:00

I am a retired Master Sergeant and have been on Jury Duty three times since I retired in 1997. First was a County Court issue that was settled before trial. One was as an alternate for a State Court trial and the last was on a Federal Grand Jury. I would think it had more to do with case itself than your veteran status. Some cases naturally go against what most Military Veterans believe in and may make you prejudiced to the case at hand so we get eliminated. the nature of the beast.

Response by SGT Kelly Conley made Sep 14 at 2016 9:53 AM

2016-09-14T09:53:07-04:00

I served on a Grand Jury and on a Petit Jury, I dont remember them asking me about being a veteran. I felt that it was my duty to serve as both a civilian and a veteran.

Response by GySgt Dan Czech made Sep 14 at 2016 10:40 AM

2016-09-14T10:40:02-04:00

I was called earlier this year and had pretty much the same experience. The defense attorney came out and said during his questions that he doesn't like veterans on juries because we see things too much in black and white with little grey. I was dismissed from jury duty.

Response by SGT Kiley Anderson made Sep 14 at 2016 11:41 AM

2016-09-14T11:41:17-04:00

I was called a couple of years ago. The defendant was a 50 year old man accused of domestic violence. My veteran status never came up but when they asked me if I would be able to overlook prior convictions for domestic battery and deal with just the facts of this case I said probably not. If a man is 50 and has never been accused or convicted of domestic battery I'd have to hear the facts but if he has been convicted in the past, I don't believe people change after adolescence. Once a wife beater always a wife beater. They said I could go.

Response by SPC Scott Morey made Sep 14 at 2016 11:47 AM

2016-09-14T11:47:41-04:00

Add that to the 5.5 years of being a maximum security correctional officer and its a recipe for 0 calls for jury duty.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Sep 14 at 2016 12:46 PM

2016-09-14T12:46:36-04:00

I was excused because the effect of the pills I take for sleeping leaves me somewhat impaired when it comes to short retention,in the morning.

Response by FN John Holzhey made Sep 14 at 2016 4:23 PM

2016-09-14T16:23:11-04:00

It shouldn't. But I was on a jury in the last century, before the current "politically correct" movement.

Response by SSG Amy Koblos made Sep 14 at 2016 4:29 PM

2016-09-14T16:29:23-04:00

I was called for jury duty, wasn't disqualified. Also, no one in that town knew me nor I them lol

Response by SP5 Dennis Dowling made Sep 14 at 2016 4:57 PM

2016-09-14T16:57:57-04:00

It never got that far. 70 percent service connected PTSD.

Response by SGT Sean Burke made Sep 15 at 2016 12:00 AM

2016-09-15T00:00:10-04:00

I served twenty years in the Army. I sat on several Court Martial Boards while I was in. During my time in service, and for the past 11 years since retirement, I have never been called for jury duty. I believe that I should have, but never have.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2016 12:24 AM

2016-09-15T00:24:32-04:00

(knock on wood ) i havent had a jury summons since i got out of the army in 2012 thats a long time in this little town

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2016 12:43 AM

2016-09-15T00:43:59-04:00

I have been summoned so often, I consider it my secondary occupational specialty. I have only now realized that the only times that I have been empaneled were when I was a civilian between two periods of service. I cannot recall if my veteran status was ever brought up during selection.

Response by SGT Scott Moore made Sep 15 at 2016 2:22 AM

2016-09-15T02:22:13-04:00

The first time I was in the Jury Box as a potential Juror, the same thing happened to me. However, I have since served on two juries.

Response by SSgt Darryl Jones made Sep 15 at 2016 6:39 AM

2016-09-15T06:39:23-04:00

I have served on 2 jury's. The first one was assault on a female. Second was armed robbery. In both cases the person was found guilty. Both times I served as foreman. I was recently called again and when asked if I had served on a jury prior I said yes. They did not select me this time.

Response by SMSgt Gary Yonchak made Sep 15 at 2016 9:32 AM

2016-09-15T09:32:07-04:00

Local courts "prefer" potential jury members to be NEITHER Veterans, Police Officers, Fire Fighters, EMS, Paralegals, or Lawyers. Too tough and B/W on the defendant(s).

Response by SSG John Watson made Sep 15 at 2016 10:19 AM

2016-09-15T10:19:18-04:00

If the Fayettenam court system dismissed veterans, they'd never be able to fill a jury.

Response by SFC Charles Pearce made Sep 15 at 2016 11:43 AM

2016-09-15T11:43:05-04:00

No, the attorney's saw you as a threat for their client. Because veterans know how to follow laws and have integrity, they thought you would "lead" the jury to a guilty verdict. That's why attorneys can "select" jurors.

Response by SGT John T. Atkins made Sep 15 at 2016 2:07 PM

2016-09-15T14:07:08-04:00

I have served as a veteran.

Response by Nathan Golder made Sep 15 at 2016 2:38 PM

2016-09-15T14:38:44-04:00

Law enforcement is the same way, you'll be gone in the first round... but hey atleast I don't have to worry about jury duty.

Response by PO2 Robert Cuminale made Sep 15 at 2016 3:47 PM

2016-09-15T15:47:57-04:00

I've been called 4 times. MY problem is that I had 46 law firms as customers and run into the lawyers at court. Six of my lawyer customers are now judges. One time the judge greeted me with "Hi Bob". I answered "Hi judge, not hi, Theo"
No I don't get to stay.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2016 3:52 PM

2016-09-15T15:52:00-04:00

No it does not. Both sides might have their reasons. I know vets who have been on jury duty and others who have not.

Response by SGT Keith W. made Sep 15 at 2016 4:50 PM

2016-09-15T16:50:16-04:00

I was just selected for a jury as a veteran. They never even asked anything related to it.

Response by SFC R Reyes made Sep 15 at 2016 5:07 PM

2016-09-15T17:07:40-04:00

No, on my first jury trial, I was selected because I had both veteran and working on my criminal justice degree. The end result was the case being considered mistrial because of overzealous prosecution and a plea bargin was made before we reached the verdict. It went split with me siding with the defendant.

Response by TSgt David Case made Sep 15 at 2016 7:09 PM

2016-09-15T19:09:46-04:00

No idea, never been called

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2016 9:02 PM

2016-09-15T21:02:01-04:00

It did the same for me bro. I didnt even make it to the Court room cuz i got axed before that was necessary lmao

Response by SSG Stephan Pendarvis made Sep 15 at 2016 9:23 PM

2016-09-15T21:23:04-04:00

Nope...not at all

Response by MSgt Victor Moss made Sep 15 at 2016 11:29 PM

2016-09-15T23:29:47-04:00

For a motorcycle theft trial, I was grilled by the defense lawyer about being retired military, and whether I could be fair to his client since I was trained to follow orders. I explained that not only was I not obligated to follow illegal orders, I was obligated to report such unlawful acts. After 20 minutes, he finally accepted me for the trial. In the Jury room, I was immediately elect Jury Foreman because of the way I handle myself.

The first thing I told my fellow jurors is that I found it odd that he grilled me so hard, yet never once asked anyone if they owned a motorcycle, since I owned 34 bikes at the time. There were no deliberations: Guilty by unanimous vote on the first poll. Stupid lawyer.

Response by MSgt Jeffery Murphy made Sep 15 at 2016 11:34 PM

2016-09-15T23:34:04-04:00

Have been Called twice, one for reckless driving, the defender simply did not show. The second for a Superior NY State court involving a mixed marriage, where the couple were claiming discrimination because they were turned away when they had no reservation. I was asked if I'd ever tried tostay in a hotel/motel and had been turned away. When I replied that I had, was asked what the circumstances were. When I explained that I was retired USAF and had many short notice tdy's and yes I had to explain what that was, was asked if I had ever been turned away answered yes they wanted to know what the reason and response from the hotel staff was, I stated they said they were full and was handed a phone book to look for another place. After that short discussion both sets of lawyers ran to the judges bench to dismiss me.

Response by SFC Pat Mattson made Sep 15 at 2016 11:51 PM

2016-09-15T23:51:41-04:00

I have been called and served on 2 juries in Colorado. I just went in and answered the questions honestly and didn't try to back out. When asked if I had anything that whould preclude me from serving I said, I did not. I also never volunteered that I was a vet or that I was an MP during my time.
Having been an MP and having to testify in court proceedings I know that spontainious exclamation and volunteering information is not readily accepted." Just the facts, ma'am".

Response by SGM Joel Cook made Sep 16 at 2016 1:05 AM

2016-09-16T01:05:07-04:00

Sir, since you did not state where this occurred, I will venture a guess that you appeared before a bunch of liberals, in a liberal court, in a liberal jurisdiction. I say this because I have seved on two juries in Killeen, Texas after I retired in 2005. Both were murder trails, one was death penalty, the other life in prison. This is in a conservative district, in a conservative state. Since it is a pretty well known fact that between 75 and 95 % of military personel vote Republican, and are pretty much conservative minded, it is often assumed that military veterens will vote for stern punishments. Liberals do not like that fact and will try to remove veterans from the serving juries. Please let me where this occurred and knew your views on this, it is a bit intriguing. Unfortunately considering the state of the current Democratic Party I do not find this much of a surprise.

Response by MSgt Chad Shuherk made Sep 16 at 2016 7:36 AM

2016-09-16T07:36:45-04:00

I was called once, in initial selection I was Juror #1. I was retired at that time and was asked current occupation but many times when asked that I will follow up with "I'm Retired military". They went through the rest of the 12, and I was dismissed and another whose brother was a police officer was dismissed. That same day I talked with a coworker who was a lawyer and he asked if I said I was military and said yes. He said that many defense attorneys don't like to have military on the jury because we tend to not be as soft on people that break the law and are more likely to side with the arresting officer.

Response by SGT Kirk Baillie made Sep 16 at 2016 8:38 AM

2016-09-16T08:38:14-04:00

I disagree that being a vet will keep you from being selected to a jury – It all depends on the attorneys. Last Summer I was selected for jury duty for a child sex abuse trial and after two weeks of really sick evidence, witnesses and our deliberation, we found the defendant guilty on four counts. Dirty Grandpa is in the big house until he is almost 80.

For the life of me, I still don’t know why the defense attorney didn’t red-line me. When asked why I be a good juror, my reply was I see things as black and white based on the facts and have no problem following the judge’s orders. I guess in this particular case, having jurors that followed direction was more important that being a vet.

Response by SFC Christopher Perry made Sep 16 at 2016 9:16 AM

2016-09-16T09:16:02-04:00

Funny, my son and I had this conversation a few nights ago.

Response by SFC Christopher Perry made Sep 16 at 2016 9:24 AM

2016-09-16T09:24:23-04:00

Almost 50 years of age, and I've never even been called on. Just because I said that I will be.

Response by SSG Leroy Learn Jr made Sep 16 at 2016 12:23 PM

2016-09-16T12:23:42-04:00

As a Vet and current Police Officer they tend to kick me out before I walk through the door......

Response by 1SG Tom Conner made Sep 16 at 2016 12:50 PM

2016-09-16T12:50:17-04:00

I served on a court martial as a senior NCO. Another aspect of service to our country. If lawyers don't appreciate our serving, there are plenty of others who do. The current attitude toward the law is an aspect of shame and weakness for our society.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2016 1:08 PM

2016-09-16T13:08:53-04:00

Good afternoon Sir,
I recently served on jury duty, and it was known that I was a veteran. So I am sure being a veteran does not keep you from serving on a jury.

Response by CPT Jack Thompson made Sep 16 at 2016 5:03 PM

2016-09-16T17:03:43-04:00

I have only been called once, and I was selected. The defendent was a PV2. The prosecutor was concerned with my military experience, but allowed me on because I was also a former MP with extensive experience as a responding officer to many Domestic violence cases.

Response by SSG James Dennis made Sep 16 at 2016 6:19 PM

2016-09-16T18:19:23-04:00

I have to agree with you sir. I was selected a few months ago (I live in a very small rural town in TX) and when the "vet status" was broached all 3 of us there did not get selected. Hell, I was one of a few that didn't have any knowledge of the offense and defendant. Thought I would be a good juror not having any preconceived intel. Oh well, I guess they wanted sheeple.

Response by Amn Dan Richards made Sep 16 at 2016 7:23 PM

2016-09-16T19:23:26-04:00

I've been selected for jury duty twice. Both times, I never got past the selection waiting room. I did see a Marine get turned down on "peremptory challenge", because the prosecution didn't want 'God, Country, Corps' on the jury. His replacement? A Protestant Minister! How's THAT for a hoot?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 16 at 2016 7:38 PM

2016-09-16T19:38:17-04:00

Being military or prior service does not stop you from serving. The lawyers on the other hand, during selection, ... they may not like your viewpoints of the world. Most seem to want a jury that responds to "Feels" more than facts.

Response by SSgt Scotty Marks made Sep 16 at 2016 10:21 PM

2016-09-16T22:21:22-04:00

The first thing a potential juror should remember is that right out of the gate, the accused is innocent. Let the state earn their pay.

Response by PO2 Drew Dan made Sep 17 at 2016 1:39 AM

2016-09-17T01:39:40-04:00

I'd kill for a chance to red pen the COMMISH. What a bunch of traitors,

Response by A1C Vicki Pierce made Sep 17 at 2016 8:16 AM

2016-09-17T08:16:30-04:00

I live in a military community with a huge veteran population. I have served as a bailiff on quite a few jury trials and I must say I've seen a lot of veterans serve on juries. So I can't agree with this statement. When the attorneys are conducting voir dire, the process of selecting a jury, both sides are trying to select the right jury members for a fair and impartial trial. The type of jury members they choose is all determined by the type of case to be heard. For instance, if I were on jury duty, I would be cut from a criminal case because of my law enforcement background but I could sit on a jury for a civil case.... If a veteran was charged with a crime and going to trial I could see the defense striking any veterans on the jury, because other vets might hold that brother to a higher standard so they would see it as unfair for their client... Now the prosecution might like that cuz that would be favorable for their side... The attorneys make notes for all sorts of reasons... So don't think that because you are a veteran will keep you from serving on a jury....

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2016 12:48 PM

2016-09-17T12:48:15-04:00

Interesting conversation and perspectives. I have not been selected for a jury either, but not due to my soldier or veteran status. I believe jurors are selected for their malleability. In my case the rejections were for other reasons. One was a case for assault on a police officer. When I was identified as working in LE I was asked if I was assaulted. "Yes." Dismissed. Another was for a guy seeking damages from getting hit by a car at an auto auction. My wife worked for a competitor and I described car auctions as "Controlled chaos with strict safety rules for dealers to keep them safe." Dismissed. A third time one of the lawyers asked if anyone believed tort reform is needed due to a perceived excess of civil cases. "Yes." Dismissed.

Response by MAJ Glenn Lasater made Sep 17 at 2016 3:35 PM

2016-09-17T15:35:27-04:00

I'm an Air Force Vet and retired Army. I've been called for jury duty five times over the last three decades and I've been challenged off by the defense attorney every time. I was never challenged for cause, always by a peremptory challenge by the defense attorney.

I have several Masonic brethren who are attorneys and one who is a DIstrict Judge. They tell me that there are several reasons why a defense attorney would challenge me; I'm white, I'm male, I'm educated, I'm married, I was career military, I served overseas, I'm a conservative Libertarian, and I'm a Christian. I agree that how questions are answered lead to being challenged but I submit that most veteran's answers would be different from most civilians, probably resulting in a higher rate of dismissal.

The first time I was called, the ADA asked the jury pool how we would rate the criminal justice system in this country on a scale of 1 to 10. Most of the jurors answered between 2 and 4. My answer was a 9, perhaps a 9 and a half. The ADA seemed surprised and asked me why I rated it so high, since he'd never had a rating that high. I explained that I had served [lived] in societies where children who stole a loaf of break to feed their hungry siblings would be severly beaten or have a hand cut off and, compared to that, we were doing pretty damned good. I was the first peremptory challenge by the defense attorney.

So, I don't believe that being a veteran, in and of itself, will keep you from serving on a jury, but, combined with other factore usually common to veterans, it's more likely.

Response by SPC Patrick McNamara made Sep 17 at 2016 9:39 PM

2016-09-17T21:39:06-04:00

I have been called to jury duty four times, each in the San Francisco (East) Bay Area. I have served on the jury three of the four times called, and each of those three times, I was selected jury foreman. Two were criminal cases and one was a civil case. The questionaire never asked about military service. Maybe this is a recent development?

Response by Sgt Everett Mittan made Sep 17 at 2016 10:03 PM

2016-09-17T22:03:15-04:00

I don't know. I doubt they'd want me though, I say what I think and don't much care for political bull.

Response by TSgt Eric Lewis made Sep 18 at 2016 10:15 AM

2016-09-18T10:15:48-04:00

I've only been as far as receiving the summons, but was being deployed at the time. After sending the summons back with that information, I haven't received a summons since. That was five years ago. Coincidence? I don't know. We'll see if I get another one, I'll let you know.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Sep 18 at 2016 1:51 PM

2016-09-18T13:51:29-04:00

It didn't stop me, Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen, and I was actively serving in the USAR both times I received the summons. I received a federal court summons while living in Oklahoma City, but was never selected from the pool. I received a county court summons while living here in TN, and was selected for the jury that ultimately decided the defendant was guilty.
It's been a long time, but I don't think my military status was ever questioned that I remember.

Response by MAJ Keith FitzPatrick, CPIM, CSCP made Sep 18 at 2016 2:00 PM

2016-09-18T14:00:36-04:00

I'm 1 for 2. Empaneled once and not selected the second time. The time I wasn't selected was related to my number sequence, not veteran status. I was something like #46 and they found 12 jurors and two alternates before they got to my number.

Response by MSG Don Burt made Sep 18 at 2016 2:23 PM

2016-09-18T14:23:25-04:00

I have been selected two times and one time not selected because of my being an MP while in the Reserves but have never seen negativity towards the Military "UNLESS" your MOS/Job would be a problem against the suspect.

Response by PV2 Michael Davenport made Sep 18 at 2016 2:37 PM

2016-09-18T14:37:52-04:00

Not sure. I have only been called to serve once in 25 years and the guy plead out. My wife has been called 4 times just this year. I do also have to take into account the I was law enforcement for 10 years.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2016 2:45 PM

2016-09-18T14:45:57-04:00

I would disagree. As I prosecutor I have had many veterans remain on the jury as has defense counsel

Response by SPC Frank McGee made Sep 18 at 2016 3:11 PM

2016-09-18T15:11:26-04:00

Over the years since I served in the Army I have been on many juries, both civil and criminal cases. The questionnaire I received prior to reporting asked if I was a veteran, I was never asked about my veteran status and as far as I know was never excluded because of it. There might have been heck to pay had that ever been an issue!! One bright hope for you'all is that in some states, like Texas there is an exemption for those over 70 years of age.

Response by A1C Jeff D. made Sep 18 at 2016 7:40 PM

2016-09-18T19:40:13-04:00

I am called up in a jury pool about twice a year. I have served as Foreman of a Child molestation jury. It sadly became clear it was a vengeance false accusation. My community tends to get jurors with high moral standards, from looking at who served with me in that jury, and the group I tend to be called with, 120 at a time.

Response by PO3 Brian Berthon made Sep 18 at 2016 9:07 PM

2016-09-18T21:07:14-04:00

I experienced the same thing. I served for six years and did three combat tours in the Middle East. I received the letter for jury duty. Walked into the courthouse with a us navy veteran hat on. The lawyers asked me how many years I was in the service for and they immediatly struck my name from their list and was told these words "sorry for any inconvienience but they would not need me as a juror." tge last time I recieved a letter for jury duty I called and they asked for the file number and then said "sir we show that you are being treated for PTSD I said yes and they said that I would no longer receive summonses for jury duty and they said have a nice day sir. It's like they know that we will not lie or be swayed in any way. I think military members would make great jurors but I am biased. Oh well no jury duty for me.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2016 9:18 PM

2016-09-18T21:18:48-04:00

Personally I feel like more military personnel retired or active should participate in jury duty, just because we have a somewhat better understanding when it comes to specific aspects of certain issues that may come up in a court room, I feel as though just like with the police force we are not chosen for jury duty because we have bias opinions on certain subjects.

Response by LtCol George Carlson made Sep 19 at 2016 12:41 AM

2016-09-19T00:41:45-04:00

I have been called several times but only selected once. The lawyers in the family (ex-wife, criminal prosecutor for the IRS and daughter, public defender) have explained several of the issues previously mentioned. Some is based on fact and some on the respective lawyers' notions of the military. In both instances it may result in either side (or both sides) wanting to keep you off. The basic both pro and con (depending on the case and which side) is that military tend to be far more grounded in law (regulation) and less likely to be swayed by a dramatic argument form counsel.

Response by SFC Michael Borden made Sep 19 at 2016 12:43 AM

2016-09-19T00:43:24-04:00

served on a county jury and on a Grand jury - the question never was asked. Of course this was in No.VA. so there are a whole lot of us here.

Response by SP5 Jesse Primeaux made Sep 19 at 2016 6:31 AM

2016-09-19T06:31:39-04:00

Honestly, I am not sure if it does or does not keep you from being chosen during the selection process. However, this does pose an interesting question. I was medically discharged after an incident in Iraq. Since 2006, I have been called to serve on jury duty three times and it seems like shortly after they hear I am a veteran, I am dismissed. This is very interesting indeed.

Response by SPC Barbra Barton made Sep 19 at 2016 11:58 AM

2016-09-19T11:58:37-04:00

I've been called and told not to come in as soon as they get the initial questionnaire they send out back. Once I have had them call and ask specific questions on my military career then after the questions tell me I was not needed to appear.

Response by 1SG Jarius Hansen made Sep 19 at 2016 12:23 PM

2016-09-19T12:23:11-04:00

Sir, I would surmise that it might well depend on the charge(s) for which the accused is being tried (if for a specific case rather than a jury pool for a specified time), the political leaning of the venue in which the case is being tried (politics, after all, the law not withstanding, do play a part in selecting juries, especially under voir dire selection), and whether or not those selecting the jury believe their client(s) would ever get a fair trial, given the belief (and fact) that most military folks lean conservative AND are likely to have little patience with legal posturing, preferring to hear the facts in evidence. Further, after having served subject to the jurisdiction of the UCMJ, (which allows fo both tougher and more lenient judgements and punishments under varying circumstances and command levels, as you well know), it is my experience that military people are willing to give a wider view, take more circumstances into account, but also understand that letter of the law, often is mitigated by the intent or spirit of the law, as circumstances dictate (and as attorneys often attempt to use to obfuscate the evidentiary facts). You may well be correct, and I personally have seen both sides of that: potential (military and former military) jurors being easily selected in communities supporting the military, and being rejected wholesale in those that barely tolerate, or actively berate the military.
I, personally, have been selected for jury duty, military service notwithstanding, or apparently hindering that selection, as about 2/3 of the pool selected had some military background. Thus, my comments above.

Response by CPL Adam James made Sep 19 at 2016 6:44 PM

2016-09-19T18:44:31-04:00

Many veterans such as myself are a bit emotionless. We are not easily persuaded but are great at persuading others. Long story short a veterans verdict will win or it will be a hung jury.

Response by Elle Fields made Sep 19 at 2016 11:08 PM

2016-09-19T23:08:35-04:00

One other group eliminated before you even get to be selected are those who fall into the ENTP (like myself) INTP,INTJ,ENTP groupings on the Myers Briggs. The questionnaire they have you fill out that is rather MB'ish in its line of questioning If filled out truthfully gets you a quick ticket home... do like I did and answering give yourself the appearance of being a mindless drone who will listen to only testimony inject no matter how illogical it is and make decisions from the heart not head and you can fake your way onto or nearly onto a jury. This means the jury you get to select from was preselected before you got to make a decision from the group of people who would be the most unbiased and logical people to put on a jury.

Talk about loading the die.

Response by SSgt Kirkpatrick Winegarden made Sep 20 at 2016 7:14 AM

2016-09-20T07:14:07-04:00

It really might, depending on the issue at bar. Don't take it personally, and it isn't discrimination--it's intelligent jury selection.

The prosecution in a criminal trial would love to have you there, but also knows your presence couldve grounds for an appeal. The defense would prefer a jury full of single mothers and felons--you're neither.

In a civil trial, neither side wants you there. Plaintiffs attorneys will possibly believe your response to their client will be "suck it up", while defense lawyers are worried your sense of right and wrong doesn't extend to insurance companies.

Either way you've got too many cons as a juror and both sides can strike a number of jurors without cause, and an unlimited number for cause.

I think you might be mistaking the normal course of legal proceedings for discrimination.

Response by PO1 James Tompkins made Sep 20 at 2016 8:31 AM

2016-09-20T08:31:01-04:00

I have served multiple times now on juries here in Mobile Alabama. Once for a shooting of a man that did not kill him. And another of a accident at a plant where a man got injured.

Response by LTJG Jon Moss made Sep 20 at 2016 8:24 PM

2016-09-20T20:24:24-04:00

Not even being a lawyer kept me from serving as a juror.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Sep 20 at 2016 8:39 PM

2016-09-20T20:39:25-04:00

Guess I got called up once, but the people who's CONUS address I use told the court I was out of the country. Never had the chance. But after reading many of the posts, I also feel we know where the BS meter is pointing and that may make a difference sometimes.

Response by MIDN 3/C Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 21 at 2016 9:20 PM

2016-09-21T21:20:03-04:00

Perhaps I will start a "little" experiment when I take psychology. The setup would be simple; label group A, "veterans" and group B will be control. Then, I observe the differences in how each group is treated.

Response by SGT Marie Slider made Sep 22 at 2016 6:07 AM

2016-09-22T06:07:33-04:00

I have been out for 5 years and have never been even requested to serve on jury duty. I thought no vets did lol. So this is all news to me.

Response by SPC Skip King made Sep 22 at 2016 10:33 AM

2016-09-22T10:33:43-04:00

Yes it has before, there were 4 times where I was selected though, due to the cases being heard were of charges against fellow veterans

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Sep 24 at 2016 10:26 PM

2016-09-24T22:26:45-04:00

SIR I WOULD SAY IT SHOULDN'T MATTER BECAUSE I HAVE BEEN CALLED SERVAL TIMES BUT NEVER PICKED.

Response by MSgt Mark Elmer made Sep 25 at 2016 1:32 AM

2016-09-25T01:32:05-04:00

I have been called 3 times, never served. I did make it as far as the defense attorney giving me a thumbs down. I had tworked strikes against me. One I knew one of the PD officers and 2 I was retired AF Security Forces.

Response by MGySgt Tom Kaiser made Sep 26 at 2016 9:39 AM

2016-09-26T09:39:14-04:00

Did not keep me from being selected.

Response by SSG Nancy Amore made Sep 26 at 2016 4:09 PM

2016-09-26T16:09:20-04:00

I was called for jury duty, when I told them I was an army veteran, MP/CID they released me. I think it's hurt the case and your views on that case.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2016 11:05 PM

2016-09-26T23:05:51-04:00

I was called for jury duty my senior year of high school right before I enlisted every since that one time I've never been called on again.

Response by PO3 Richard Stewart made Sep 26 at 2016 11:36 PM

2016-09-26T23:36:33-04:00

I have only been selected as part of jury pool once. i have been notified i was eligible for jury duty 5 times. The jury was seated before any of the us with military service ( four vets, one active duty) were interviewed. I can't say for sure if this was deliberate on the part of the attorney's or not.

Response by MAJ Richard Cheek made Sep 30 at 2016 1:35 PM

2016-09-30T13:35:20-04:00

I had a prosecutor say he would love me on a jury. Having administered my fair share of article 15's understanding due process, reasonable doubt etc I think I can weigh the evidence and the case on its merits....that being a said...never been selected for a Jury in 65 years.

Response by CPO Lynn Storton made Sep 30 at 2016 7:05 PM

2016-09-30T19:05:36-04:00

No. I have served as a veteran. If there was a reason to remove due to military service, it would likely have to do with the details of the case.

Response by SGM Harvey Boone made Sep 30 at 2016 9:00 PM

2016-09-30T21:00:52-04:00

NO the lawyers and being honest does.

Response by Sgt Paul Rehman made Oct 1 at 2016 9:09 AM

2016-10-01T09:09:48-04:00

Been selected multiple times, both local and federal, doesn't seem to have been an issue.

Response by TSgt George Rodriguez made Oct 1 at 2016 11:36 AM

2016-10-01T11:36:28-04:00

Being retired military didn't prevent me from serving on jury duty. I served on an age discrimination case. When I was interviewed for a criminal murder case a few years later, I informed the lawyers had I been present at the scene of the crime that there would not be need for a trial because I would take out the murderer at that time. Needles to say I was excused.

Response by SFC Walt "Butch" Deal made Oct 1 at 2016 7:56 PM

2016-10-01T19:56:54-04:00

I had a similar situation. When they found out that I was a former Military Policeman, I was ejected so fast my head was spinning!

Response by SFC Walt "Butch" Deal made Oct 1 at 2016 7:58 PM

2016-10-01T19:58:00-04:00

I had a similar experience. When they found out that I was a former Military Policeman, I was ejected so fast my head was spinning.
Walt "Butch" Deal
SFC, US Army Rtd

Response by MAJ Milton P. made Oct 1 at 2016 11:42 PM

2016-10-01T23:42:15-04:00

I have been call a dozen times in the last 16 years since I retired from the Army and have always been dismissed because of being a vet. This means taking off from being a Special Ed. teacher at a High School and finding a sub and sometimes there is not enough of them who will take a Special ed. Science and Math classroom (we also have to use one of our 6 days a year or use a local 1/2 day meaning we lose a 1/2 days pay). So I finally made and appointment to see the Judge and after taking about it and the fact I had been a article 32 judge he moved me to a special list where I will only waste my time in the summer and not during the school year, we did not get to the fact that I carry a permanent Law Enforcement License and have been a Reserve Deputy in my county the other thing the defense does not want on the jury. A Reserve Army Officer who is a defense lawyer told me that most defense lawyers don't want Military Officers on a jury because !. we follow rules to the letter, 2. we are trained to think on our feet, 3. we are better at seeing through BS and Dog and pony shows than most of the Population and there fore stick to the main point and not to the misdirection to miner or none important points they try , 4. as leaders we might wind up leading the jury to a out come they don't want.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Oct 2 at 2016 3:52 PM

2016-10-02T15:52:23-04:00

up to the attoorneys during jury selection

Response by SSgt Kathy Morgan EA made Oct 2 at 2016 6:06 PM

2016-10-02T18:06:34-04:00

Right there with you, sir! The try being a vet and a retired cop! I usually get dismissed before the first question.

Response by SSgt Roy Jones made Oct 2 at 2016 6:33 PM

2016-10-02T18:33:42-04:00

No I just had jury duty this past week (traffic court), along with some Army Capt. All these people wanted a trial to me was a waste of time. I will say that out of the 12 I was examined in 11 cases, however I was only selected for one. I never mentioned I was a veteran because, the only question that was asked that related was are you a retired veteran?

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Oct 4 at 2016 2:06 PM

2016-10-04T14:06:01-04:00

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen NO...I've received 4 Jury Duty summons since getting out....they pick the jury purely on what the CASE pertains to...

Response by LCDR Wayne Zieschang made Oct 5 at 2016 3:05 AM

2016-10-05T03:05:21-04:00

I have been called for jury duty more times than I can remember.

While on active duty, I would receive a summons about every 18 to 24 months. As Texas used Voter Registration rolls to pull summons, mine would always go to my Home of Record address. My father would put an "X" in the box "On Active Duty" and mail it back in.

After getting off Active Duty, but was still in the Reserves, the same thing would happen. As I went back to school, I could opt for the "Full-time College Student" exemption. That worked for 3 summons.

Subsequently, Texas changed to using Driver's License record to enlarge the Juror Pool. After that, I was called about every 3 years. Every time, the juries would get filled before they got around to me.

About 10 years ago, I moved to Bell County (Ft Hood) where if Veterans were excluded, the county couldn't get enough people for a car pool much less a set of juries. I was called for jury duty less that 2 months after moving, was selected for the jury, and picked as foreman by the other jurors because I said, "Well, the first thing we have to do is pick a foreman." The crime was child molestation by a soldier, we found him guilty and gave him the maximum time and fines allowed by law.

Haven't even received another notice since.

Response by PO1 Thomas Malik made Oct 5 at 2016 7:36 PM

2016-10-05T19:36:51-04:00

Veteran status will not keep you from being selected as a juror. There were three veterans on the last jury I was selected for. Caring 600 + grams of powder cocaine and a 45 caliber pistol came out to 35 years at hard labor.

Response by MSgt Frances Hayden made Oct 5 at 2016 9:15 PM

2016-10-05T21:15:40-04:00

Not in an area that is majority veterans, retirees and active duty or family thereof.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2016 2:19 PM

2016-11-10T14:19:01-05:00

It's not that being a veteran specifically disqualifies you, it's that being a veteran makes you likely to have certain beliefs that neither defense nor prosecuting attorneys seek for jurors. The ideal juror is someone that both sides feel can be swayed to their side. Typically people with a set of absolute values aren't wanted by either the defense, the prosecution, or both, depending on what that set of values is. Veterans typically have an absolute set of values. It's not to say that they're absolutely committed to one particular set of values, but just that whatever that set of values happens to be: their commitment to them is absolute. The military doesn't have a tendency of producing people with relative and empathetic viewpoints, which is what they're looking for during jury selection.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Nov 10 at 2016 7:19 PM

2016-11-10T19:19:52-05:00

I told them the MEDS I use preclude effective, cognizance before the hour of 10:00 am...THAT was it and they stopped bothering me...

Response by LTC Brian Croteau made Nov 17 at 2016 11:31 AM

2016-11-17T11:31:10-05:00

Have not been on a jury since the 1980s... That said, within a year or so after getting off active duty, I was called for jury duty on a criminal case. When asked if I'd ever been on a jury I mentioned my "additional duty" as a Court Martial Panel Member for about a dozen cases in a 12-month period. "Can you distinguish between military law and civil law?" the prosecutor asked... "Yes, I passed Government in high school with an A..." And I was on...

Response by MSG Don Burt made Nov 25 at 2016 5:33 PM

2016-11-25T17:33:47-05:00

It can if you were in the Military Police or served within the JAG office and you can't serve on a Grand Jury because of the time involved, but other trials that don't take more than a day or two, yes.

Response by Capt Joe Sylvester made Dec 1 at 2016 10:10 PM

2016-12-01T22:10:30-05:00

They figured they couldn't use emotion to "win" your vote, and doing it just with facts is a lot more work. I think I got rejected the last time I was empaneled too, for much the same reason, although they didn't know I am former military, but I don't think the defense attorney liked my answers to some questions, and the prosecuting attorney may not have liked others.

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made Mar 23 at 2017 5:36 PM

2017-03-23T17:36:00-04:00

It didn't stop me from being called to jury duty. John - what did stop them...cold in their tracks, was my reply to a question that I qualified my answer by starting out by saying "As a retired military Chief Warrant Officer and retired Federal Law Enforcement Officer..." The issue was did I think that a LEO should be taken at his word, that LEOs don't make mistakes. My reply was that of course (we) LEOS can make mistakes; and that I could fairly evaluate the officer's statements based on the possibility of a mistake.

It was fairly easy to figure out both the prosecution's and defense's plan of attack. The defense was going with "self-defense" and a LEO making a mistake while the prosecution was going with illegal possession of a firearm and using a firearm when not authorized to carry a gun in the first place.

I was not asked to sit on the jury!

Response by TSgt James Potter made Mar 30 at 2017 6:29 PM

2017-03-30T18:29:33-04:00

I have been called 3 times. Each time was right before I deployed. I retired in 2010 have not heard anything from them.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made Apr 6 at 2017 1:39 PM

2017-04-06T13:39:43-04:00

I've never had it happened to me-in fact as an ex Police Officer I would often get disqualified but within the last few years have been called and served on a jury in spite of this.

Response by SSG Jesse Piippo made Apr 26 at 2017 5:14 AM

2017-04-26T05:14:24-04:00

I recently went to jury selection and was asked if I was a veteran. After answering "Yes Sir", they simply smiled as if watching a kid do something silly and stupid. Three minutes later, I was walking to my truck in order to enjoy the rest of the day off work. So, with this said, my question is, what if I had lied? I had not raised my right hand yet. I was under no oath. Don't take this as one who is a desperate juror. Just a thought. Think about the things attorneys are willing to say to get a win, regardless of whether it's the defense or the prosecutor. And NO! I would never actually lie in court.

Response by CPO Dave Royce made Mar 28 at 2018 10:07 PM

2018-03-28T22:07:45-04:00

You know that could be true I’ve lived in Jacksonville , for 25 years , and have never been called , my buddy moved here 2 years later call for jury duty , wasn’t selected either

Response by CPO Dave Royce made Mar 28 at 2018 10:11 PM

2018-03-28T22:11:57-04:00

why Haven’t I been verified asa Vet

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 16 at 2019 7:37 PM

2019-01-16T19:37:03-05:00

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen it might have a tie to case specifics. Just worked in your favor. Usually the “do you know anyone in law enforcement” is a bullet train to the parking lot with your ticket validated.

Response by TSgt John Hotelling made Jan 16 at 2019 10:08 PM

2019-01-16T22:08:35-05:00

We shall see I would hope I could do jury duty but I don’t think I can physically can’t sit long or stand long supposed to report for jury duty in feb. waiting for a notarized letter from va doc to see if I can be excused. We shall see

Response by CW3 Harvey K. made Jan 16 at 2019 10:17 PM

2019-01-16T22:17:02-05:00

I was called for jury duty and was questioned concerning my familiarity with police for one criminal case. I told the judge I was named after a police officer, that many of my friends were police officers, and that three of my nephews were LEO's. Disqualified for cause.
Then I was questioned for a medical malpractice case. My friendship with a pharmacist, employment at a medical school, and two nurses in the family disqualified me from that case.
There were no questions about military service, and unless such service had some possible reason to suspect bias toward one side or another, it should never have been a matter of concern.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2019 6:49 PM

2019-01-17T18:49:00-05:00

Not necessarily, but I plan to try talking to myself.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 17 at 2019 11:37 PM

2019-01-17T23:37:44-05:00

It doesn't make you exempt from being called up for jury duty, but it may make the prosecuting and/or defense lawyer think twice about you being on the jury.

I've been called up for jury duty twice now, but I was never selected as a potential juror.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jan 18 at 2019 1:07 AM

2019-01-18T01:07:17-05:00

There was a point in Massachusetts when police Officers were exempt form jury duty but that changed and We did get called. It became a waste of time, it seems we were the fist challenged by the defense, (The prosecution didn't mind us being there). Its pretty hard to have a preconceived notion on guilt on innocence before hearing the case at all but it seems defense Attorney did exactly that on the challenge to Police Officers sitting as jurors. I did at one point actually get seated on a jury but it was a civil case not law enforcement related. In My case both My Military and civilian occupations were police and even my college Education was in Criminal Justice.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Jan 18 at 2019 5:58 PM

2019-01-18T17:58:42-05:00

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen I was never called for jury duty. Of course,i lived "off the grid" for about 30years. Maybe that had something to do with it.