The Opposite of Web 2.0: Jury Duty

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Since this blog is all about Web 2.0 and online communications, I have a question I’d like to ask our readers:

How does jury duty work in your neck of the woods?The other day I had the pleasure of performing my civic duty here in New York when I was summonsed to appear at the civil court.  I was not selected to be a juror (too many opinions, I guess!) but I did make some observations.  Mainly, that the jury selection process is in desperate need of evolution, 2.0-style.

Here we are, 2008, and the best way the most sophisticated city in the universe can handle the process is by mailing me a card?  Having me dial a phone number each day?  Sit in a large room for eight hours, even if I’m not picked?

I’m hardly a hotshot who thinks my time is more valuable than the next guy’s, but there has to be a better way than sitting idle for a full day.

Why is the initial screening not conducted on the Web?

I wasn’t asked anything that couldn’t have been answered via an online questionnaire.

Worried about eye contact?  I’ll plug in my Web cam.

Worried about security?  If I can transfer my life savings online and file my taxes, an encrypted page should keep our conversation on the case confidential.

No one is suggesting that the judicial process be handled remotely, but from my experience, they basically do not want people who do not want to serve.  So why waste our time?

Perhaps they are concerned that people who own computers will have an advantage.  But I think these days there are enough public venues, such as the library, that allow you to get online.

Are there any municipalities currently employing or exploring this?

There might be some Websites addressing this issue.  Or perhaps your town has already employed something similar.  Let us know!