Gay man refuses to serve on a jury in courthouse where clerk won't perform same-sex weddings
Chuck Chapman showed up for jury duty Tuesday in Duval County, Florida, prepared to be held in contempt of court.
That’s because the 63-year-old, openly gay man had decided to refuse to serve. His action was prompted by a recent decision by the clerk of courts to stop performing all weddings, after a federal judge lifted the state’s ban on same-sex marriage, reports First Coast News.
In fact, when Chapman explained his objection, he was simply excused. “I just don’t feel comfortable in the courthouse. If the clerk of the court doesn’t feel comfortable performing same-sex marriages, as an openly gay man, I don’t know how I can feel comfortable in court,” he says he told the judge after jurors were asked to explain if they had any biases or prejudices.
He says he hopes standing up for marriage rights will inspire others to do likewise.
A spokesman for the clerk’s office refused multiple requests for comment by the Florida Times-Union.
Related coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Law firms say they will perform free same-sex marriage ceremonies if court clerks won’t”
