René C. Davidson, Alameda County Courthouse, Oakland I came here for Jury Duty services. Make sure to come before 8:30am to find parking or if you plan on taking public transportation. Parking/ Transportation: You get reimbursed for taking public transportation, also $1 off the Arco Parking that is the circle parking lot, it's a block away. I believe you get $.15 for every mile driven. *Make sure you sign and return the form ASAP.* There's restrooms for jurors, vending machines located downstairs of the basement and water fountains to refill your water bottle. You may eat or drink at the waiting area. Once you are settled in, you will be required to watch a video about your jurors services. If there's a trial, the judge will come out and explain in more details. If you are selected, you will fill out a bunch of questionnaires about yourself, your views on stuff and so on.. Pay: You get paid the second day if you are required to return for jury duty services, you don't have to fill out any forms. If you work for the government, your pay is the same as your employer pay. Remember to bring your Jury Duty Summon postcard/badge, your ID, water and some snacks. You can be there for half a day or full day. :) read more

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I was summoned for jury duty and then chosen as a member of the jury, so I was here for a few days in a row. I honestly didn't have a bad experience at all. Parking is definitely a hassle. I got dropped off every morning, so that I didn't have to worry about parking. I do know that many people like the Alco park garage, but spots can fill up fast. When you first go in, there's security check. Nothing too crazy, but was told by a deputy to never bring metal forks in (if you were to pack your lunch), because security will stop you. I did pack my own lunch every day. If you needed a fork, you could go to the snack bar located lobby level. This was my first jury duty, so I didn't know what to expect. After security check, I went to a large room where I sat and wait. They played a video for us, and then had us fill out a questionnaire. The lawyers and judge then came down to speak to us a bit. You then have a chance to fill out a form in case of hardship, where the judge can excuse you. Everyone who is not filing for hardship goes upstairs to a courtroom and wait. A random number of people were then called to be questioned by both attorneys. This basically went on until both attorneys were okay with the panel. Now for my experience as a juror...it honestly wasn't that bad. I thought this was a great experience and very educational. My favorite part was definitely getting to know the rest of my fellow jurors. We had great conversations during breaks. Your experience is definitely depended on how you view being on jury duty. I hated missing work, but my fellow jurors made it fun. And the trial itself was nice to watch and take part of. read more

I got called in for jury duty and had to report at 8:30 am on a Thursday morning. Parking is limited so I took uber as I didn't have to worry about parking or car break in. When I arrived, you have to go to a metal detector like when you go to through airport security. Then there was a line to the jury assembly room. There is also a snack bar on the way to the jury assembly room. After about 2 hours of waiting in the assembly room, the judge came down to talk to all of us rather than in the courtroom to save time and gave us the details of the trial, which would last for 2 months, and if we couldn't attend for two months and it was a hardship, he asked those who couldn't commit to write a hardship request and he even posted the dates we would have to be in court. I had a hardship due to caregiving duties and a trip planned so I was excused for another year. We also had to complete a 10 page questionnaire rather than answering all these questions one by one verbally in front of the court. The process took the whole morning and expect to spend some time waiting for each step. read more

René C. Davidson Alameda County Courthouse - Courthouses Near Me - Oakland, California

I was called for jury duty, and I sat myself in the reasonably comfortable waiting room to await a screening questionnaire and then an audience with the judge. The staff here were pretty good, they explained the process well and they got through it efficiently. I actually ended up being the very last juror candidate to be screened, but fortunately I was dismissed! In time for lunch, even. The courthouse is centrally located such that it's easily accessible by bus or BART. I took the bus there myself, it got me there pretty quickly. Why park in Oakland when you don't have to? read more

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For the first time ever, I actually got called in for jury duty. Most of the time, I've been excused the evening before, but when I checked this time around, I was told to report to this courthouse on a Monday afternoon for next steps. From the outside, the courthouse is super recognizable for locals - I've seen this many times during walks around Lake Merritt, from the freeway, and even when I went to the warriors parade years and years ago. I didn't want to struggle with Oakland parking so I was dropped off, but heard that the Alco parking garage nearby is convenient and cheaper (if you're able to find a spot!). They also offer validation ($1 off) for that parking garage if you're there for jury duty. When you enter the courthouse, you'll go through the security metal detector. For me, jury duty check in was straight up ahead. You get in line. You give your badge. You get a paper that says you showed up. And then you have a seat and wait. They have some water from a water cooler here, but I'd recommend that you bring your own water bottle or drinks if you feel you'll need something to sip on. From there, you'll wait (bring a book/something to do) and then the staff will walk you through next steps: filling out some forms, orientation videos, etc. Then the judge/legal teams will come and give you an intro of the case. For this one, we had to fill out a paper questionnaire (~70 questions), some were then directed to go to a different floor if they were applying for hardship, and then we were on our way. Anyways, the courthouse is a courthouse, nothing fancy. They do have a snack bar and they're nearby to restaurants/cafes if you wanted to walk out and explore. read more

This is that huge old courthouse by Lake Merritt. Its old and kind of smells like mold. Nothing here is new. The temperature in the interior is unstable and the staff isn't very friendly. But - hey - its a courthouse! Watch out for the parking issues. Really the only two choices for parking are to park on the street on in the garage that is shaped like a cyclinder and spirals up. Parking on the street is dangerous. Cars are getting broken into left and right. The criminals will just go down the line breaking into every car with out a care in the world. Don't do it. Splurge and park in the garage. read more

Months after moving to Oakland, low and behold, I received a jury duty notice. :p More than 150+ potential jurors went through the selection process, down to 12 jurors. I was chosen to serve as juror # XY. The staff here at the Alameda County Courthouse were kind and efficient. They were all very helpful and provided clear instructions what time to check-in, what days we are expected to be here and time of arrival. They explained how the process of juror selection works and the expected length of time. I think if you've never served as a juror, it might be worthy of your time as a citizen in our great nation, to at least experience it once. You will gain an appreciation of the system in placed, and what role you will play to rule on factual evidence and the rule of law. Cheers! read more

René C. Davidson Alameda County Courthouse - Courthouses Near Me - Oakland, California

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This is where you go for Jury Duty in Oakland!! The building definitely has that old school feel, security is nice enough, and so are the people conducting Jury Duty. The waiting is always longer than I expect it to be, make sure you bring your patience with you when you come, because it's gonna feel like a long day. But they do a pretty good job, and they'll help you with whatever they can paperwork wise. read more

René C. Davidson Alameda County Courthouse - Courthouses Near Me - Oakland, California

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TIp for the jury duty people. There IS validation for parking but only at the one that they use on Jackson. So the museum is the one you will possibly choose and likely pay 15 dollars. The Jackson is six all day WITH validation stamp located in the north side of the big room. Right next to that is the "I was at justly duty form" that you pick up for employer. They do not mention this in the outgoing voice message. So it is only privy to those who can figure out how to pull the info from the websites. I brought an empty box of cereal to hold on my hand because I get comfort from it. Holding it makes me feel more safe. And my mask keeps falling off. And I have a twitch in my eyelid today for some reason. It is so stressful! read more

René C. Davidson Alameda County Courthouse - Signage to find the validation machine and verification for work. - Courthouses Near Me - Oakland, California

Received a jury summons and required to call in the Sunday evening before. After dialing in my identification, I'm told no jurors are not needed, BUT... I have to call again day of on Monday between 11-12. Well, heck. I'm happy to serve just don't leave me hanging. I still can't plan anything. read more

This review is not a reflection of the people who work at the Courthouse nor the process of being a potential juror. It is more about the condition of the building, comfort levels and how this structure does absolutely nothing to make the process of being a juror a positive experience. Of course I realize that any major improvements will cost tons of taxpayer dollars and I happen to be one of them. It had been a few years since I had been summoned to this courthouse. It seems that the line to enter moves a bit faster though there is less security that there used to be. It's either been one Deputy and one Tech or two Deputies. In the olden days, it seems like there were more deputies. When nothing is going on, one or two is good enough but when there's a crowd pushing to get in, you need more eyes to keep track of everyone AND the xray machine. I was sent to Department 10 to hear about the trial that I might be selected for. Those of us who could serve were then sent back to the main Juror Assembly Room on the first floor to fill out a thick questiionairre. Considering how many people are carrying laptops and tablets, I have to wonder whether it might be possible to transition the questionairre so I can type my answers rather than handwrite them. One, I can type way faster than I can write and then what I type is also legible. Returning to Department 10 after one week for the actual selection process, i've discovered a major problem for me. The Judge, using a computer generated list, seats a panel of 18. That panel sits in the jury box and across the front of the rail in relatively comfortable chairs. The rest of us have to sit in the hard chairs of the gallery while the attorneys and the Judge ask the 18 panelists various questions to determine their suitability to be a juror. Sad to say but I really wish I had brought a jacket or something with me that I could have rolled up and sat on. My butt is going to hate me the rest of the week. read more

I finally answered the call for jury duty after being deferred for many years. i've been here only once (in my memory). following instructions on the postcard i called and got notice my "groupad been called. if i don't make it by 8:30, i will be rescheduled. the recording noted no one will be admitted after 8:30. traffic was bad and i got there after 8:30 so didn't bother to check in. afterwards, tried calling number on card to reschedule, call info out of date. had to check on line. online website noted i didn't show up. new scheduled date shown. next time i don't show up i could be fined $50-$1500. maybe should have checked in for a medical deferrment. (sleep apnea issue). read more

Okay it's Jury duty MEH. I have to say that it took me over an hour and half to get here just to make it with 10 minutes left to my name. This building is old and nothing compared to SF or San Mateo. First let's talk about parking, guess what they give you a discount for the parking lot and it's a dollar. I have to say that most places pay for your parking but that is not the case here. So expect to pay some money out of your own pocket if you have to do jury duty here. Entering the building you will pass through security just like the airport so make sure that you take all your items out and put them in the bin. When you go to the jury room it is actually pretty big and there are areas where you can just sit and read or use your computer. The bathroom is located right there next to the room which is nice and so if they call your name you won't miss it because it comes over the intercom. It is very important to listen to the announcements at the beginning of session so you won't forget to pick up your note for work and where to get your parking ticket stamped for your little discount. Now here is where I have to say that what I really don't like about this court house. Most court houses have a pretty decent cafe so when you take your breaks you can move fairly quickly in and out and get back to the jury room. This court had a small hole in the wall store and the only thing they had that was hot was a hot dog and the rest was just frozen items to throw in the microwave. There was just this one little lady and oh man was the wait long and so by the time I got my frozen burrito and was able to get back to the jury room guess what? Mika go to room 19 and here I am gathering my stuff and walking down this long hall under the building which connects to another building just to get to this court room. Yup, still holding my hot burrito which is slowly dying in my hands. The jurors gather in this room and it is to the point where there are not enough chairs so many are left standing and we are given instructions by the court clerk and judge about this case. I do have to say that the court officers and judge provided very clear instructions and were very nice. The court clerk was very nice about answering a question I had too. I was fortunate enough be excused from this trail. If you get called like me every year almost twice a year be prepared when you go to this court house that you probably should eat or bring something to eat and try to get over to the court room before the others or you will be stuck standing. This is the 2nd time I have been to this court house. Also, do not forget to walk back to the jury room and get your parking ticket stamped by the machine and that you will still pay for parking. I do not suggest street parking for the meters are 2 hours and they do not like people to leave the court room or the jury room unless they are given breaks. read more

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I was honestly dreading to go and fulfill my civic duty of being a juror. I took a Lyft to get here because I didn't want to get lost. The juror entrance is on OAK ST. There's a line so it was hard to miss. You need to go through security by putting your bags, wallets, belts, phones, etc. on a bin to get scanned. You can bring water and no removal of shoes required. Once you get through the security line, they will tell you where to wait. The holding room is where you will submit your badge (big portion for them, small stub for you) and watch a video about being a juror. You need to put your phone number on the big badge before surrendering it. Abdul, our moderator was funny, engaging and kept any first time jitters away. The clerk will do a roll call and direct you where to proceed for the next phase. Once inside the next room, you wait for the judge (Judge Tara was nice) to give instructions and fill out a questionnaire. Everyone gets called and asked if they have any reason they can't participate apart from those that have hardships. You get short breaks in between to snack, feed your meter (if you parked) or use the restroom (located in the basement). Then, jury selection begins. They use an old school rotary box for random selection. After all jurors and alternates are selected, they take an oath and the rest gets dismissed. I suggest taking public transportation like BART and get off at LAKE MERRITT station. Walk up Oak St and the courthouse will be on your right. There is a parking garage (Arco) that charges $6/day which you need to validate. Spaces fill up quick. As most people said already, bring your own food/snacks and water. I didn't check out the snack shop or any food places nearby. read more

I was there for jury service. The selection process took several days before I was eventually released. My only complaint t is the parking situation. You have to pay on the street if you cannot get into the parking structure, which is hit or miss. There is a machine in the jury meeting room across the street to validate parking but it only takes one dollar off of the fee. While I was there the parking fee raised by one dollar so the validation didn't mean much. read more

Over all these years, I would get my annual jury summons notice and call the evening the before summons date or call back the following day and be excused and be considered served for the next twelve months. Two years ago, I was called in for the first time to the Wiley W Manuel Courthouse and was selected to be on a jury. This year, I was called in to the Rene Davidson Courthouse. It's a grand old courthouse that sits near Lake Merritt. After going through the security check, you proceed down the hall to the jury room. A worker greets you as you enter and takes the big portion of your postcard and you keep the stub. You then take a seat in the waiting room. Then the waiting begins. To pass the time, you can bring something to the read or surf the web on your web enabled device as the room is Wi-Fi connected. Bring water and something to snack on. Though there is a snack shop on the floor. Oh, there is a restroom in the room. Late morning, the first roll call takes place and my name was not called. Thought I had escaped but the non-called had to report back after lunch. So after lunch, the second roll call took place and I was called. Our group headed up to the courtroom and took our seats and we are sworn in. You'll be reminded to turn off your phones. The judge enters the courtroom and talks about the duties of a juror, the trial process and the time line for the four week trial. Then he describes the charges for the cases and introduces the D.A. and the counsels for the four defendants. Then he states that for those that cannot serve, to fill out the excusal form and to wait outside the courtroom. I requested for an excusal due to a conflict during the second week of the trial. After about half an hour, the court secretary came out and said that the judge had granted all of us the excusal and considered served for the next twelve months. I'm glad I got my excusal since given my recent trend, I had a feeling I would have been selected as a juror. Overall, It was a good experience my first time to the Rene Davidson Courthouse. Until next year! read more

Have you ever received a jury summons in the mail, called the night before for reporting instructions, and instead of getting dismissed like usual, you discover that you ACTUALLY have to report to the courthouse??? Not knowing what to expect, here is my experience: PARKING: The courthouse website does not provide parking instructions so here are mine. There is metered street parking surrounding the courthouse, and they will allow you to leave and feed your meter. I am not sure if there are any free parking spots in the vicinity. To save time, stress, and walking to feed your meter, the ALCO parking lot on Jackson Street allows jurors to park for a flat fee of $6/day with validation stamp available from the jury room. SHOW UP EARLY for parking. Do not steal the stamp from the jury room. There is a bus stop right outside of the courthouse if you want to take public transportation. You can also uber, lyft, etc. DIRECTIONS: If you follow your GPS directions, "you have arrived" at the steps on Fallon Street, however if you walk up to the doors, you will notice, they are all closed and all the doors have a sign that says "ENTER on 12th Street Entrance". WHYYY, oh WHY do they do this when I am rushing to make it in time for my first jury duty? Anyhow, walk around the corner to the other set of doors on 12th street. It is the only entrance you can get in. FOOD: Bring your own food, snacks, water, etc. because you may be waiting for several to many hours. There is a snack shop the size of a walk-in closet however it looks like it was abandoned after the zombie apocalypse. I am usually open to trying new things except E. Coli and Salmonella. I wouldn't trust the food. It didn't look appetizing at all. SECCCUURRRRRITY! To save time, pretend you're at an airport about to go through security. Empty all pockets, coins, cell phone, wallet, remove all metallic items, belts, hats, jewelry, etc. and place in the plastic bin. Walk through the metal detector and collect your belongings. Walk straight down the hall, do not turn right, but walk pass the empty information desk, pass the elevators, to room 100, the jury assembly room. THE PROCESS: A friendly blonde woman greeted me at the door and told me she liked my purse. I gave her my juror postcard, and she ripped the little stub and returned it to me. She told me to go to the end of the room, and pick up the proof of attendance form. The parking validation stamp and some candy/mints are located right next to it. There was a man on the microphone that was like our MC, lol. His job was to make us feel comfortable, have us watch a short clip on the court system, and answer any questions. People were using their phone and laptop while we waited for the judge to come and address us. There are NO outlets though. After several hours of waiting, we were divided into two groups. Like a reality show, one group stays and the other group gets sent home. In this episode of My Life: Jury Duty-the ones sent home are the winners. Everything else, I believe is confidential. I survived though! read more

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There's no parking garage? Are you fucking serious? Parked on the street. Paid every godamn coin I had because the credit card machine didn't work. Gave me TWO fucking hours maximum! Guess what? After two hours is up I'm walking out of this bitch. Don't fucking call people here and not have facilities for them. I mean I guess I shouldn't expect anymore from a typical liberal shit hole like Oakland. read more

A relic. If you are going here it is probably for jury duty. Unfortunately I seem to get called once a year so I know this place well. Parking is atrocious. They have a small snack shop, but eat at it at your own peril. A couple of pieces of advice. Take Uber if you can. If you are in the 8:30 jury duty arrive by 8:00 and grab a cubicle in the southeast corner of the room. It has power and privacy and decent seats. Bring your own snacks and lunch. Go to the east side of the building at lunch. Several outdoor tables are there overlooking the lake. I hope your "visits" here are infrequent and short! read more

After five years in Alameda County, I guess it was inevitable that I finally had to report for jury duty. The courthouse is conveniently located a few blocks from the Lake Merritt BART station. There is a nearby parking garage on Jackson Street($6/day if validated) but they warn that it fills up fast. There is free wi-fi in the building so it's possible to do some work while you are waiting in the jury room. However, the courtrooms do not seem to be air conditioned so it got very warm. If you are going to be there on a hot day, I would recommend wearing short sleeves. I was surprised at the lack of good restaurants in the vicinity. You would think that with all the people who work at the courthouse or are serving jury duty, there would plenty of places to choose from. There is a small kiosk in the courthouse but not much of a selection of food. I saw a microwave near Department 12 so you could bring some food to warm up. All the staff are very friendly. I was glad I wasn't picked to be on the jury (it would have been a month-long murder trial) but I think the whole process is very interesting, albeit time consuming. Judge Thomas Reardon is very entertaining and explains the law well. I learned a lot in the three days I spent in his courtroom. read more

Yes, I am back for jury duty again! It's actually a lot more efficient these days. A lot can be done online. But you still need to wait around for quite a while. However, the people are all very pleasant, and it's a nice place to spend a few hours reading a book. Of course, if you get on a trial, you won't be reading too many books in the courtroom. The judge did not explicitly say, but I'm pretty sure that we're not allowed to do Yelp reviews during the trial. I mean what would we say? How much we like the judge? read more

I have taken out a marriage license here, and years later appeared Family Court after my son's mother called it off. It's sad, disorienting, and expensive. It's also an experience I hope never to repeat or wish on anyone else. So when I get called for Jury Duty, I really don't want to come down here. During the last round, I was in the "pool" for a murder/rape case, and actually found the whole vetting process to be fascinating. I initially didn't appreciate taking 3 days out of my life during the preliminaries, but after not being picked, I was actually kind of disappointed. I would have enjoyed working for this Judge, but I guess my "12 Angry Men" fantasy will have to wait for another day of Justice. read more

The interior of this building could use some updating - it's kind of worn out. I arrived here on motorcycle and realized I should have taken BART or a bus when was immediately approached by a very tall OPD officer at the metal detector checkpoint who had noticed my gear - boots, rain pants & 3/4 length jacket, full face helmet. "What do you ride, a scooter?" "Why yes, officer! I do ride a stereotype!" No, really - I just looked at him in disbelieve but that's what I thought. I smiled and said, "No, I don't" He kept guessing - "A Ninja 250? A Harley? What? Aren't you going to tell me?" I told him "Sorry, it's not for sale!' Fortunately, he laughed. Folks here are pretty nice but I think that the services are a bit overextended and it always amazes me at how much hand holding people need to function in life. The lines are dehumanizingly long and because most people are sheeple, you get treated like the lowest common denominator - so be prepared to have someone talk to you and answer your questions as though you are in kindergarten. read more

This place looks like a really old building. Elevators are as slow as a snail. And a certain courtroom we were in was just a tad unorganized and unprofessional. It specifically says on the signs in the courtroom "NO talking, eating or reading while court is in session." While being in the court room don't even worry about that because nobody was respectful. Lots of in and outs and "not ready's" and WAY TO MUCH side conversations going on and no one not even the bailiff shut it down. We asked the bailiff a question and he did not know what was going in the courtroom and was just as confused as us? I guess things are run different around here. Parking sucks and expect to be here ALL day for anything. And I mean literally ANYTHING. Bring something to keep you occupied and TAKE A CHARGER. read more

Great place IF you have to go. (The JURORS and of course the Sheriff's deputies and other fine workers are OUTSTANDING FOLKS.) Its the IDIOTS / STUPID CRIMINALS and their so called love one/families who come there that's make it so hard. They are late , forget or do not know where and when they are suppose to be in front of the judge. Though they have been told and are given the address plus the ROOM in a letter. THey are mostly too dumb to operate in general. It is a shame we have moved too far from nature so nature can weed out these morons.. But then a lot and I mean a lot would not have a job. LOL read more

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The building has some interesting aspects - nice exterior, high ceilings, lots of wood in courtrooms but it needs s bit of updating. No restroom on the main floor. The seats in the courtrooms are tight and hard. And it would great to have a real cafe there instead of a stripped down 7-11. And the security. Belts off, boots off. Everything through a scanner. And they made me get rid of my very small (smaller than salad size) metal fork because "it could be used as a weapon." Really, a fork? read more

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I give it 3 stars only because how "excited" can you get with a County Courthouse?! But, as a citizen, being called in to possibly be on a Jury, I can assure you that the bathroom for the men, in the waiting area, was very clean. (I'm assuming the women's was also good). I also had the opportunity to go to the little Cafe which is inside of the Court Building (1st floor, North Hallway) and aside from being about the size of an over sized broom closet - you are able to get snacks and beverages at a very fair price - I paid $2.25 for a bottle of water and a bagel, not bad at all. The lady who ran the little Cafe was friendly as well. Do I want to come back? Well, honestly "No" ;-) read more

René C. Davidson Alameda County Courthouse - Do I look bored or what?.... - Courthouses Near Me - Oakland, California

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If zero stars was an option, I would have taken it! I had to reschedule my jury duty due to being at a conference, they say that you have 6 - 12 months to reschedule. That is a complete LIE! The date they give you is auto populated and you cannot change it. I tried to call and got left on hold for 3 hours.... yes, 3 hours on hold listening to the repeated message. It is really difficult to be a citizen wanting to do the right thing and complete my civic duty; however, the system they have set up is absolutely a mess. I have called my County Board of Supervisor and was told they can do nothing.... This is why people mysteriously never receive the postcard. It is way past time to treat people wiling to complete their civic duty with some respect! This agency should be completely ashamed of itself! read more

I received a FIX IT TICKET a long while back, renew my registration and send them a copy. This is what a fix it ticket is. Now you also apparently have to pay cash money for some reason I didn't see where they wanted me to pay $ 25.00. I went and got it done and sent in the paperwork not knowing there was a charge. I received a bill for $300.00 dollars ? I wrote a nice letter explaining my error and sent in the check without delay and they sent me something basically saying " we don't give a damn" I make 19,000. A year, $300.00 is a lot to a person like me. I couldn't pay and now it's $600.00. I think you did the wrong thing in this case. Clearly it was not intentional, and clearly I wanted to make it right. I think you could have gotten by without gougeing one person who made a mistake. Real disappointed in your selfish County! Teressa Cordova read more

Like other reviewers of this courthouse, I write this review as someone called for jury duty. I want to share a few helpful (and recently-validated!) tips to make the best of your first jury duty visit to this courthouse. The other yelp reviews here also offer excellent guidance. Definitely bring these things: * YOUR JURY SUMMONS. Probably should go without saying ... * 2 PENS. That second pen could make you somebody's hero. They'll ask you to fill out forms, and the courthouse doesn't provide writing instruments. * BOTTLED WATER. If you have to leave your holding room seat every time you get a little thirsty, you may lose your seat. The folks in charge will ask groups of jurors to gather in different parts of the holding room throughout the day for various reasons. * FOOD. Same reason as above. Although there is a small cafe on-site. * FULLY-CHARGED ELECTRONIC ENTERTAINMENT. Outlets are scarce in the juror holding room (I saw maybe three working wall outlets in a room that held over 100 people), so be prepared to go without the juice. TL;DR: To me, this felt a lot like packing my carry-on for a flight. What you'd want with you on a plane, consider bringing with you to the courthouse. -------------------- If you care about parking and getting into the building, here's my experience. I chose to drive and went to the Alco garage on Jackson Street. The courthouse still subsidizes parking at this garage, and you'll pay $6.00 for a whole day. (Just validate your parking ticket in the juror holding room.) This garage has two entrances, but only the Jackson Street entrance admits the public. I arrived at 8:15am on a Tuesday and had no trouble finding a spot. The courthouse is a very short and relatively safe walk from the garage. I didn't run into anybody creepy on the street, and I saw plenty of suit-wearing people roaming around. Note the public courthouse entrance is on 12th street. As you enter, prepare to remove all your jewelry (including watch) and your belt. You don't remove your shoes. Take out any laptops for scanning. In the interest of keeping the line moving, the officers are firm and quick to correct folks who don't get it. Once you're in the building, the people and the signage will get you where you need to be. As everyone's jury duty experience will be different, the details of my story from this point probably isn't relevant. My only piece is of advice is: LISTEN CAREFULLY TO THE ANNOUNCEMENTS. THEY MATTER. read more

Defense: Juror number 75.. You said in your form that you don't trust the police? Me: That is correct. Defense: Can you explain why? Me: Well.. I just don't believe that Sting had 8 hours of tantric sex with his wife... Defense: ... The defense requests that juror number 75 be excused. Jury duty summons... the most annoying letter you can get in the mail. As a free country, I think it'd be a great idea if we could exchange some of our "rights" for others. I'll give you my privilage of serving in court, and you can profile me at airports (single male traveling alone? I probably need to stop doing that shifty eyes thing when I go through security...). Here are a few tips: 1.) The parking lot (Alco, I think) that accepts Courthouse validations gets filled up around or before 9 (they say $5 with validation at the Courthouse, but I swear I was only charged $4). There are several other lots. I parked in one across from McDonald's that charges $8 for a full day. The benefit of this lot is that you can leave and return as you wish (great for those 2 hour recesses). As I walked to the Courthouse, the Alco lot wasn't "full" anymore. Oh, well... There is a validation machine in the Jury room that you can use yourself. Be sure to pick up that slip next to it that proves you were there that day (I took more than one, muhaha). 2.) The public (non-employee) entrance is on 12th St. Don't be a fool like me, pacing around and circling the whole building like an idiot. 3.) Don't wear a belt or have any additional metal pieces. The metal detector area gets backed up and everyone here seems stressed out (probably hiding some goods in their rectums). 4.) Do try and pay attention. read more

they had nice security guards there i believe it was allied during the week and weekends who are the current company there i heard its a new one read more

Part 4 After the Defendant saw the DVD Clips of his Partners in Crime . He started to change his Story . He started to paint another scenario or chain of events that lead to the Murder. He admits he was there and that he was the Driver and that the other 2 guys were the Shooters. Little did he know if he had Remained Silent and refused to talk to the Homicide investigators even with his 2 Partners in crime testimony he would not have been charged with the Murder . But since he admitted being there that fact is all the Detectives and the DA needed to Charge him with Murder. The Defendant was sent back to Santa Rita. The Detectives asked the Jailers to Tape his Phone calls and Monitor his Mail . That request would be very fruitful. Six months later he would have a Conversation with his Nephew . The Defendant would talk about the Hoodie that he was wearing when he did the Rape Home invasion . The Transcript from the Phone call would be forwarded to the Detective in Charge of the Rape investigation. The Rape investigator would check the Hoodie out of the Evidence locker and find 2 Bullet holes in the left sleeve . An entry and exit hole from a Bullet. The Detective would go back to Jane Does house and take Measurements and Find the Bullet hole in the floor and the Bullet under the house. He would then formulate a Theory. That the Defendant had intended to kill Jane Doe . But his gun malfunctioned and he tried to fix it and it went off and shot a bullet thru the Hoodie sleeve into the floor it was Dumb Luck that he hadn't shot himself. That had freaked him out so much that he didn't finish the job of killing Jane Doe and left key evidence behind. In the Months before the Trial the Defendants 2 Partners would take Plea Bargains with the DA to testify against the Defendant. The Driver would get 19 years and the Other shooter would get 23 years . Both would be in their 40s when they get out of prison. As the trial date would get Closer . The Jailers at Santa Rita would stop and read an 8 page letter written by the Defendant to his Sister. It was a Coded Letter that turned out to be a HIT or EXECUTION letter. It was very detailed . It named the Rape Victim Jane Doe and her Husband , A few of the Other Witnesses to be killed . It was Step by Step guide including What to Wear , What to Use and How to do it. This letter was sent to the DA and the Homocide Investigators. Part 5 Later read more

I think the staffs need some morale booster. Some staff are really helpful and most of them are rude. Anyway, I was waiting to called and the ceiling tile fell on top of my head. This is an ambush . Luckily no bleeding or anything. I think i need some beer to get off this headache read more

René C. Davidson Alameda County Courthouse - I was waiting to be called and the ceiling tile fell on top of my head. Luckily I survive. This is some scary .... - Courthouses Near Me - Oakland, California

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Jury duty: you get that summons and a) roll your eyes and try to figure out if it will work with your work/personal schedule b) curse and throw it out with the recycling c) lose the damn thing and then worry there's a bench warrant for your arrest(this happened to me once)d) sigh and put it in your phone. I have had most of these reactions(c prevents me from doing b)but I usually comply with my civic duty.Usually, I have to call in for a couple of mornings and then I'm done for the year. This year, I requested a postponement. Like clockwork, I was summoned to the Courthouse and when I checked online, I saw that my jury group had been chosen to report in person. It was also the first day of my daughter's summer school program so it was a hectic morning which included me running up from Lake Merritt BART. I joined the line into the jury assembly room, hastily completed the back of the form(take care of this in advance!), and joined the 179 sleepy people with me. We filed past the work slip forms(everyone must take one) and then grabbed a seat. There is free wi-fi but I also brought a book. We were asked to turn off our devices a few times so come prepared. Vicki, the clerk in charge of the jury assembly, was informative and hilarious in that momma don't take no mess kind of way; I actually thanked her for making the morning so entertaining. There were alphabetical roll calls as judges summoned juror pools; these are randomly selected so pay attention. We got a break around 10:15. One star off for the lackluster snack bar: the fridge was out of order and the offerings were all run of the mill pre-packaged snacks. Next time I'm packing my own water and food as outside food is allowed in the assembly room. Then Vicki fooled us by saying we would be needed at 2pm before dismissing the 100 of us who hadn't been selected to leave around 11am. read more

Sadly, I didn't get to spend as much time here as I'd hoped. I was hoping to be selected for a jury, but it didn't pan out. (I know it sounds crazy, but compared to my work life, having only one meeting and a guaranteed lunch sounded like heaven.) The Courthouse s right by Lake Merritt BART, so it was easy to get to. The security guards and court personnel were friendly, funny, and respectful. Restrooms were clean and well-stocked. Our judge gave us a little speech about the legal process and the big opportunity we were missing to see justice and the court system in action. Cute. I'd definitely go back. (But enough with the 8:30am start times!) read more

I don't mind doing jury duty, it gets me out of work for a day! And I never get picked for a jury, too many legal types in my family, so it's just a day of rest and relaxation, hanging out, reading, and if you can get a signal in the jury duty room, playing on the internet. The jury selection process if fascinating. Wear comfy shoes, you'll be walking and standing around a lot if you get up to the courthouse and jury selection, and there isn't much seating there. Bring drinks and snacks. I believe in doing my civic duty, especially when it gets me out of work! read more

So the staff is pretty helpful, you can tell and hear where they get annoyed of dealing with the daily stupidity and the diversity of impatient people who come through. They do their best to lighten the mood because yes, it's dreadful that we, out of a kajillion people in Alameda county, got chosen for jury duty. The parking, with validation is a dollar less whatever Alcopark is offering. The pay? 15 dollars plus 44 cents a mile for travel and you don't get paid until a day after. They have different groups to show up after you fill up all the forms (by your last name). If I had no other commitments, I'd do my jury duty service and get it over with. Too many people try to dodge and lie to get out of it, but it's a domino affect to those who actually cannot spend the time here because of personal hardships. Plan on BART if you come, parking gets pretty hectic and an extra 10 minute walk won't kill you. Save the headache and take public transportation, which is what I'm doing next time. read more

This is a review for the very nice clerks on the criminal side--to the right after you come through security. I have been stomping around court houses for the better part of 20 years. All the clerks I have dealt with here are helpful, turning on the criminal search computer for me, getting records, looking up information. It is not this way at all Alameda County court branches, even over at the muni level at Wiley Manuel, 7th and Washington, they can be a bit surly and short. Hayward? Forget about it. Anyone in legal services will appreciate the service here, said the ass-kisser. So be it. read more

Not too bad overall. It would be nice if they added some tables for jurors though. Also it's ridiculous that they can't provide free parking. Everyone down to the security guards was friendly and welcoming. The snack bar looks awful but it's rather cheap and I was impressed with the hot chocolate--ghirardelli cocoa in steamed milk, with whipped cream, only $2 - 2.50. It might be cash only. read more