My introduction to the jury selection process.... excused.
I was anticipating that either the case would be settled or that it would be a boring insurance case, because that's what everyone had told me to expect. Wrong on both counts. It was going to be a case that would involve some emotional testimony, graphic language (we were asked if that would bother us) and the victim was a child. But I was resolved to keep an open mind, be a responsible juror. And so, I don't know if, up until the final question from the defense attorney, I would have been selected to serve as a juror or not.
I answered honestly, as did three others. And we were all immediately excused.
1 comment:
I am not au afit with US Law, but my understanding is that preceding any trial in the States, the accused is indicted, where he is asked to offer his plea.
He obviously pleaded not guilty, and a trial date was set, where evidence and closing arguments are submitted, for which jurors are selected.
Remember that the accused has a right to trial ... and the incident took place on American soil - so the US has full right to hear the trial. IF the victim was an illegal alien, and from the same country, under the same laws as the accused, an extradition order may have been considered, but because none there is none mentioned, we have to assume that the victim WAS an American citizen ... which gives her right to appearance and hearing within the States.
Another fact that you may consider is this: If he was an illegal alien at the time of incarceration, was he so at the time of the incident as well?
Regardless ... the crime of being an illegal alien HAS to be separated from the one involving molestation. And if you had preconceived ideas about his guilt as a result of his alienation, then it is wiser that you not be selected, where everyone has the right to a fair trial.
SO - your decision to tell the truth was a wise one, and theirs to exclude you from jury duty, an even wiser one.
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