How to Get Out of Jury Duty (Legally and Respectfully)

Receiving a jury summons is a civic duty, but for many, it is a financial or logistical nightmare. The good news is that courts do not want jurors who face “undue hardship.” Whether you are a full-time student, a primary caregiver, or a gig worker who doesn’t get paid time off, there are valid ways to request an exemption. Here is how to write the excuse letter and what to say during selection (Voir Dire) if you must attend.

BMT Legal Team BMT Legal Team · 📅 Feb 2026 · ⏱️ 7 min read · LEGAL › CIVIC
Fine
$1,000+
For Ignoring ItWarn
Valid
Medical
Requires Doctor NoteCheck
Pay
~$50
Per Day (Avg)Low

1. The Rule: “Undue Hardship”

Inconvenience is not an excuse. Financial ruin is.

What Courts Accept
Accepted:
1. Medical: Physical or mental inability (Doctor’s note required).
2. Caregiver: You are the sole caretaker of a child (under ~6) or an invalid relative.
3. Financial: You are self-employed/commission-based and missing work means missing rent.
Rejected: “I’m busy at work,” “I don’t like cops,” or “I have a vacation planned” (Deferral only).

2. Valid Excuses Checklist

Use the correct code when filling out your form.

Category Requirement Success Rate
Age Over 70 or 75 (State dependent). 100% (Automatic)
Student Full-time student during school term. High
Non-Citizen Green Card holders cannot serve. 100% (Illegal to serve)
Work “Essential” employee. Low (Employer must verify)

3. Timeline: The “Ignore It” Trap

Throwing the summons in the trash is the worst possible strategy.

Action Status Consequence
Receive Summons Active
Must Reply within ~10 Days
No Show Failure
“Failure to Appear” Notice
Ignore Notice Warrant
Bench Warrant / Fines ($1k+)
Planning Note
If you have a vacation booked during your jury duty dates, do NOT claim a medical exemption. Instead, request a “One-Time Deferral” (Postponement) to a date 3-6 months later when you know you will be available.

4. Strategy: The “Voir Dire” (Selection)

If you have to go, you can still get dismissed legally.

  • The Process: Lawyers will ask you questions to detect bias. This is called “Voir Dire.”
  • The Strategy: Be honest about your biases. If you truly believe “anyone arrested is probably guilty” or “corporations are always evil,” state that clearly.
  • The Dismissal: Lawyers want “impartial” jurors. If you admit you cannot be impartial due to your beliefs or past experiences (e.g., victim of a similar crime), the judge or lawyers will likely excuse you. Do not lie.

5. Warning: Employer Pay Myth

Your job is safe, but your paycheck isn’t.

⛔ Unpaid Leave

Federal law protects you from being fired for jury duty, but…

  • Salary: Most states do NOT require employers to pay your salary while you serve.
  • Jury Pay: Courts pay a nominal fee (e.g., $15-$50 per day). This barely covers lunch.
  • Proof: If your employer doesn’t pay, use this fact to claim “Severe Financial Hardship” on your exemption form.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my child?
Generally, no. Most courts do not have childcare facilities and do not allow children in the courtroom. Lack of childcare is a valid excuse for exemption/deferral.
What if I moved?
If you moved out of the county or state that summoned you, you are disqualified. Mark “Not a Resident” on the form and attach proof of your new address (e.g., new license).