Arizona Revisits the Jury Patriotism Act

[rainbow4321]

http://www.sierratimes.com/rss/newswire.php?article=/ap/20050211/ap_on_re_us/jury_duty&time=1108115558&feed=us



Proving she couldn't serve on a jury this month was no easy task for Joann Paulmenn, who is 75 and suffers from Parkinson's disease. Under state law, she was required to get a detailed medical note from a neurologist and her family physician. Paulmenn's husband, Harry, was stunned.

"At age 75, I don't know why it's mandatory that you come up with a doctor's certificate," he said. "Her Parkinson's is not going to get any better."

Previously, seniors could make a phone call or dash off a note to a jury official to get excused. Now they have to get a physician — not just a caregiver or nursing home administrator — to document reasons why they can't serve.


Those making claims of financial hardships have to provide information on household income. And some military personnel temporarily serving overseas have been told to provide a letter from a commanding officer. For Joann Paulmenn, the visit to the neurologist for documentation could have cost up to $230 were it not for the couple's insurance coverage, her husband said.

[Career Prole]

1. Well now, this will make it easier to get a "jury of my peers"

Folks pissed off at the government are my peers.

[HawkerHurricane]

2. What?

"And some military personnel temporarily serving overseas have been told to provide a letter from a commanding officer."

I'm sorry, military personnel on active duty are excused by Federal Law: any active duty person may be sent on zero notice to war. Why do they need a letter from thier C.O. when the fact they have a active duty id card proves that they're active?