Answer. You can ask to be excused for "undue hardship." Whether you will be excused is up to your local county board, jury commission, or jury administrator. Sometimes you need prior approval of the chief judge of the relevant judicial circuit. Just wanting to "get out" of jury duty won't work.
In Cook County, base court costs for petty traffic tickets are approximately $254.00. Court costs for major traffic offenses are approximately $362.00. Court costs for DUI are approximately $1,381.00. Court costs for other misdemeanor offenses are around $439.00.
In a jury trial, a group of jurors evaluate the evidence presented by each side and decide which version of the facts they believe is true. In Illinois, jury decisions must be unanimous. This means that all jurors must agree with the result. All jury trials have a judge overseeing the trial.
Casual business attire is most appropriate. T-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, jeans and sneakers are discouraged. Uniforms are not acceptable. Extremes in dress may cause you to be sent home to change.
Excuses for Avoiding Jury Service: “Undue Hardship” Entitled to an exemption because you served on a jury within the past year or two; A lactating mother; The primary caregiver of a child under 12, or someone with a serious mental or physical disability, if there is no reasonable alternative care available;
Examples include: Full-Time Student, Care Giver, Child Care, Temporary Medical Condition, Scheduled Vacation, or Work Schedule conflict.
Drafting Your Jury Excuse Letter Search for any court-provided forms. Format your letter as a business letter. Address the letter to the name indicated on your summons. State your name, juror number, court date, and address. Explain the reason for your request. Ask to be excused from jury duty.