High Court Judge Courtney Daye on Monday spoke out against the practice of many Jamaicans who bring in medical certificates in an effort to avoid jury duty. The judge, who was opening the Michaelmas session of the Hanover Circuit Court, said citizens should remember that it was their civic duty to serve as jurors. He pointed out that non-communicable disea-ses such as hypertension and diabetes were not excuses for jurors to be absent. The judge also commented on the lack of discipline in the society.

There are 18 cases listed for trial during the session which is expected to last for two weeks. There are six murder cases, six sexual offence cases, five wounding cases and one motor vehicle manslaughter case.

Attorney-at-law Albert Morgan pledged support on behalf of the Bar to have a significant reduction in the case load.