JURY DUTY IN BEXAR COUNTY - FIVE TIPS

Here's are five tips for you if you're called to jury duty in San Antonio (Bexar County):

1. Parking

You can park in the parking garage that is directly south (actually, southwest) of the Bexar County Justice Center at a discount -- just get your ticket validated at the Jury Room.

How much? Just $2.00 - a real bargain for downtown, where the lots closest to the Courthouse and the Justice Center are going for $13. Oh, and plan to stay for the day: no lot or garage offers in-and-out privileges.

2. Food

The Central Jury Room is situated directly across from the Justice Center cafeteria, and there are several vending machines available to you there, as well. Things are reasonably priced, and there's a real cafeteria line with hot food for lunch.

Of course, your lunch break is your own: Bill Miller BBQ is close at hand (across Main Plaza); there's a good corner deli on Main Plaza, as well (sandwiches, soups, and things); and you have your choice of Mexican Restaurants, too.

Remember you're on a time limit though: you don't want to be late getting back, so beware of any long waits for a table....

3. Money

There are ATMs located with the Justice Center and the Courthouse. You'll need cash in hand for parking in the morning, though.

4. Taking the Bus or Using Park in Ride

You get a bus coupon with your jury summons. Call 362-2020 a few days before you're suppose to appear for jury duty, and get directions on which bus to take and what time you need to catch the bus. You need to show both the Bus Coupon and the Jury Summons to ride for free.

If you choose park and ride, drive to the St. Paul Square park-n-ride lot, and jump on the Streetcar for a free ride downtown. It's free to park in the Ellis Alley park and ride. The Streetcar is free, too, if you show your bus coupon and summons.

5. Careful What You Bring With You

You've heard the long stories about setting for hours, or days, in the Central Jury Room and not getting picked for a jury - much less getting picked for a jury and having to spend several days away from your regular life, down at the courthouse.

It's smart to bring things with you to pass the time. However, remember in this post-9/11 world, security is a priority. You will be required to pass through metal detectors every time you enter the building, and the guards will not hold any pocket knives, embroidery or knitting needles, etc. Bring something that won't pass security and you lose it. Safe bet? Paperbacks, magazines, the newspaper, IPODs, and the like.