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| - Seriously, I must have arrived with low expectations because I was impressed and I wasn't miserable like I had anticipated. Receiving my jury summons in the mail, I felt dread (like Chad and Will said, the courthouse seems to get that reaction a lot).
Park in the 4th Street Parking Garage and take the ticket with you so you can get it validated if you are a juror. Also, plan to stay there the entire day...your friends lied to you when they said if you get dismissed you can go home early.
The screening process is a lot more efficient than any airport I've been to...what a cinch! The atrium area is well lit and everything has well placed signs. No excuse not finding where you need to go.
The jury waiting room is really spacious! They try to fit 150 people in there and while each of the 6 open rooms are filled, I didn't ever feel cramped. They have plenty of work stations, rows of seating, a business center (for a quieter experience), lounge-type chairs, and an eating area with lots of vending machines. Oh yeah, the second floor has a pool table and video games...ummm, since when did going for jury duty feel like an adult "skipping work" day? Okay, I may be stretching it, but given the fact that you had to stay all day, they do a really great job making it as painless as possible.
There are plenty of windows to allow natural lighting in. Also, they have a balcony...still no smoking, but if you need fresh air, you have immediate access. Did I mention the free Wi-Fi? Well, if you need to get some work done, bring your laptop. Or if you don't have a laptop, there are approximately 5 computers available for you to use.
They give you 2 breaks besides a long lunch. There are a handful of restaurants in the immediate vicinity.
Overall, not bad and the staff, bailiffs, and everyone else were actually really friendly.
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