Day 7 - What Will The Day Bring?

Jury selection continues after a grueling week of juror screening. Many potential jurors would suffer hardships of one kind or another (the majority financial) if they were to serve, so the judge excused them. It appears from comments from the judge that most (if not all) the jurors excused for hardship were ones the defense objected to being excused during the first round, even though the state and judge wanted to let them go. It was my impression that Perry seemed a bit peeved at having to waste time on a second round with these folks when he wanted to let them go the first time around.

We also saw a juror who posted on his Facebook page about having already decided on a title and cover for his book. This came to light near the very end of his questioning. He didn't offer it up when questioned by the judge and attorneys. Another big waste of the court's time.

Also excused were several people who believe Anthony to be guilty and who said they can't put that aside and judge fairly.  The saddest was a woman who lost her son in a car crash. She said the loss of a child is the worst thing in the world and she couldn't understand how Anthony could not report Caylee missing or be honest with investigators in an attempt to find her. Because of her tragic loss and her feelings about Anthony, she very honestly said she didn't think she could be fair.

Judge Perry is looking to seat 20 jurors (12 for the panel + 8 alternates). There was mention last week that he might go with fewer if necessary (I'm guessing not too many fewer, though - he'll want to have a good buffer in a trial of this expected length).

Judge Perry has been a workhorse in keeping jury selection on track as much as he possibly could. I think he would've been willing to go to midnight each night -- if only everyone else had his stamina! It's quite remarkable. His day doesn't end when he calls recess. There is much to be done behind the scenes (jury arrangements and other logistics of trial, reviewing case law, etc.). I admire his tenacity and dedication to getting this show on the road. And I want some of whatever it is he has that allows him to keep tirelessly forging ahead. ;-)