I really wanted to be in jury box! Especially in criminal court! I missed few opportunities, damn it! Nothing to do with being Deaf! Here in this county, NOBODY can get away from jury duty regardless. The only exception is if you can prove that you have to go out of town for business trip, funeral for immediate relatives (Mom, dad, kids that is it) and guess what? They aren't off the hook, they will be rescheduled! EVEN judge themselves they can not be excused too!
Several years ago, NYS changed the law after excessive number of excuses for not going to Jury duty. NYS government got fed up with this and decided pass the law, no one can get excused regardless but can postpone, period.
The real advantage of having jury in grand Jury is that Judge will not be able to act as favoritism. This was intended to prevent judge from making decision whether the accuser is guilty or not. Having 12 independent people involved to make decision whether the defendant is guilty or not. I don't see why people can't serve jury duty!