Failure to complete and return a jury questionnaire, providing false information on the questionnaire, or using vulgar or profane language in response to a jury questionnaire subjects a citizen to show cause proceeding for contempt of court.
To defer jury service you may either use the automated phone system at 866-402-JURY (5879) or click here. You must provide your Juror ID number located on your jury summons.
If they tell the truth that they do, then they will be excused from the jury. If they were to lie, that is a crime called perjury. If they are caught after the trial starts, then the judge would remove them and seat an alternate juror, or declare a mistrial. The juror could face prison time.
If you have been convicted of a felony when the conviction has not been set aside or a pardon issued. If you are a judge, clerk of a district court, a sheriff, or a jailer. If your spouse has been summoned for the same jury panel. If you or your spouse have a pending jury trial in any court.
Reasons you may be excused from jury service include: You have no means of transportation. You would have to travel an excessive distance to the courthouse. You have a physical or mental impairment. You provide care for a dependent and cannot afford to have someone cover for you.
Prospective jurors who lie during voir dire—the process of jury selection—can find themselves in serious legal trouble. We do not recommend doing this.
When writing a jury excuse letter, directly state why you cannot serve and how serving would lead to hardship. Valid exemptions include being ill or disabled, being the sole guardian of young children, or being over the age of 70. Include documentation such as a doctor's note or a letter from an employer.
Prospective jurors are put under oath when they are questioned (subjected to a void dire examination), so any prospective juror who lies could be prosecuted for perjury (a five-year felony in federal court).
You may be excused if you have a serious health problem. If you are sick or injured, you may postpone your service or request an excuse. If you are disabled, you may request a permanent medical excuse. Follow the directions on the summons for postponement or excuse.
Reasons for Being Excused from Jury Service Medical reasons. Public necessity. Undue hardship. Dependent care. Student Status. Military conflict. Other reason deemed sufficient by the court.