jury duty

Posted by number7 (405 days ago)

I have been called for jury duty in a couple of weeks and would like to know what to expect. Anyone had any recent experiences?
Thanks in advance

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by Saikunga (399 days ago)

I have been called to jury duty a number of times. First couple of times I got out of it because I was the sole carer of small children. (no maid) The last time I was called up I went.

You turn up to the court house you have been given notice, register your name / attendance. Go into the courthouse and wait for the rest of the jurors to turn up. Rise for the presiding judge who then explains about the case, about what is expected of the jurors and if they have a good reason to get out of jury duty they present it if their name is called.

12 names are randomly called from the pool of about 20 - 25 people. These people are asked to move into the jury box. They are given an opportunity to give their excuses - all of them were pretty lame and rejected.

Those not called were then given the opportunity to leave or stay to watch the case that day. Those who were not called and turned up cannot be summoned again for 3 years. The jurors who do serve get an exemption from duty duty for a longer time.

Not too exciting. I was one who was not one of the random 12. The judge spoke in english (was also an englishman) with a cantonese translator - so language is not an excuse.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by associates (395 days ago)

A juror has to determine whether a defendant is guilty or not in a criminal trial in the High Court.

Weir & Associates
Solicitors & Notaries
2108 Gloucester Tower
The Landmark
15 Queens Road Central
Hong Kong
Tel : 2526-1767
Fax : 2868-3568
email : weirlaw@hongkonglaw.com
www.HongKongLaw.com/weirlaw

(I am based in Hong Kong)