I didn't start an argument with the prosecutor to get off the panel, it just turned out that way. He was representing a big insurance company, one that says you're in good hands, one that I had recent dealings with and one that repeatedly lied to try to avoid paying a claim. He was asking if anyone on the panel didn't believe that this insurance company was merely a benevolent organization that just collected premiums to pay out to claimants, yada, yada, yada. I raised my hand and said I didn't see this insurance company in that light. He progressed to vigorously try to change my mind in front of the prospective jury pool. The judge abruptly, and in no uncertain terms, told the prosecutor to shut his mouth and sit down as he was about to taint the whole jury pool.
I am entitled to my opinion and my opinion would have made it impossible to remain an objective jurist in this case. I was one of several jurors dismissed that day. I was actually looking forward to serving and believe it is my civic duty to serve but I don't think I could have been objective due to my prior bad experience with the company involved.
