For anyone who has ever faced jury duty, or wondered how it works, this is the article to read. Below, you’ll find a series of frequently asked questions about juries, jury duty, and more. If you are concerned about a recent request for jury duty, or have not reported for jury duty, contact a trusted criminal defense attorney for advice on what to do next. In the meantime, please read the following questions to get answers to your initial questions.
What is the age requirement for jury service?
The national age requirement to be an eligible member of a federal court is 18 years of age. Those over the age of 70 may request to be excused from jury duty.
How did the courts get my information?
It varies from state to state. Check with your county clerk’s office for information on how your city obtains your jury service information. For example, in Indiana, they use the state’s voter registration and Supreme Court jury list to find prospective jurors.
Is jury service mandatory?
Yes, jury duty is required and you must attend; however, it is not technically illegal for someone to not show up, so there are no criminal consequences.
What happens if I don’t show up?
If you do not appear after receiving an official summons, there are no consequences or legal penalties; instead, you will simply be placed back in the jury pool for future selections.
What happens if I can’t make my appointment date?
In the initial questionnaire (Juror Qualification Questionnaire), you are not yet being called up. The actual call will come at a later date, after the second quiz. When you receive the second questionnaire (Federal Court Jury Duty Questionnaire), you can list the dates you cannot serve in Part 1, Question #7. If you are unable to meet most of the requested one-month deadline, you will need to complete a Hardship Request Form. If you are unable to serve due to a medical condition, please submit a Physician’s Statement with your initial questionnaire (Jury Qualification Questionnaire).
What is the difference between a trial and a grand jury?
Grand juries are different from trial juries because they meet to determine whether or not there is enough probable cause to prosecute. They do not rule on guilt or innocence. In fact, grand juries only hear the arguments of the prosecution, not the defense.
What kind of case will I be on?
Most cases are civil, but you may find yourself in a criminal case. He won’t know anything until the introductory jury assembly.
I’ve already served as a juror in county court. Why am I called to serve again?
You must also serve in federal court. Then you’re exempt from jury duty.
I already filled out a questionnaire. Why do I have to fill another one?
Sometimes the Federal Court Jury Service Questionnaire comes months after the Jury Qualification Questionnaire. And since their information might have changed in that time, they send out a second questionnaire to confirm the accuracy.
I completed the questionnaire, but forgot to submit it within the 10-day window. What do I do now?
Just send it ASAP. The courts understand that people go out of town, go on vacation, or have other circumstances in their life, so there is no penalty, you will just be on a waiting list.
