What Happens if You Don’t Show Up for Jury Duty?

It’s an important civic duty to participate in jury service. Every citizen over the age of 18 that is determined to be a qualified juror is required by law to join the jury pool for their area and serve as a juror. Though it’s a responsibility it’s one that is necessary to ensure fair and just trials for defendants in our courts. So, what happens if you don’t show up for jury duty?

Legal Consequences of Not Showing up for Jury Duty

If you don’t show up for jury duty you may be subject to minor legal consequences. Depending on the court, you may be subject to a fine, a summons, or a show-cause order – which means that if you don’t explain why you were a no-show the next time you appear the court may take further legal action. You may also be required to reimburse the court or the county for administrative and other fees related to your no-show. Further, if you skipped jury duty without notification you may be charged with contempt of court.

Practical Consequences of Not Showing Up

In addition to the legal consequences, not showing up for jury duty has other, more practical ramifications. Though you may be ultimately excused for your absence, it can be inconvenient for those involved. If you don’t show up for jury duty it can cause a delay in the court proceedings and could result in delays for other citizens called for jury duty. Further, if your jury duty is part of a long-term commitment, such as a jury at a multi-day trial, then not showing up can be disruptive to the proceedings and time consuming for the court.

Ultimately, it’s important to take your jury duty seriously and show up when called. Though you may sometimes be excused for unavoidable conflicts or obligations, deliberately missing jury duty can have consequences in the legal and practical realms. The best course of action is to take the necessary steps to attempt to be excused and to make it to court if you are able.