For more information, see Postpone Jury Duty.
your name, address, and place of birth your education employment status (self-employed, unemployed, part-time, retired, etc. ) the education and employment status of a domestic partner or spouse your experience with the law, e. g. , whether you have ever filed a lawsuit, been arrested, been the victim of a crime, or served as a witness or juror whether anyone in your family has worked in law enforcement, the court system, or in the corrections system
It is against the law in most states for an employer to try to keep you from serving on a jury. You also cannot be disciplined for attending jury service. [4] X Research source Be prepared to show your employer a copy of your summons.
Never wear shorts, crop tops, short skirts, or flip flops. Also, remove all hats (unless you wear one for a religious reason). [6] X Research source Make sure to cover up your back, shoulders, and stomach. Avoid see-through clothing. [7] X Research source Bring a sweater or jacket to put on in case it gets too cold in the courtroom.
Compensation varies. In U. S. federal court, you will be paid $40 a day, or $50 a day after 10 days of service. [8] X Trustworthy Source United States Courts Official website for the U. S. court system Go to source In state courts, the pay rate varies widely. For example, in Alabama you will make $10 a day, whereas in North Dakota you earn $50 a day.
You should leave your cell phone in the car. Otherwise, turn it off before you enter the courthouse. You should not be scrolling through text messages as you sit in court.
In England, things may happen differently. Instead of being asked questions, you will simply be selected by the clerk and told which courtroom to report to. [11] X Research source You should bring a book to read, as you may not be selected for the first trial. Nevertheless, you have to wait around because you might be selected later.
It is hard to know in advance what lawyers will ask, but you should always answer honestly. The questions should not be too personal. The judge will also look at the answers to your questionnaire and ask follow-up questions. For example, if you have been the victim of a crime, then the judge might ask if you harbor bad feelings toward all criminal defendants. Speak loudly when answering the questions. A court reporter will be taking down the questions and answers. You can try to get out of jury service by telling the judge that you cannot serve, but at this point, it will be difficult. If you need to postpone your jury service, you should have requested postponement before the day of your jury duty.
The trial may start immediately after the entire jury is selected, or you may have a brief break. Before the attorneys begin their opening statements, you will raise your right hand and take an oath to promise to impartially weigh the evidence. [13] X Research source
If you fail to follow the directions, then you might be kicked off the jury and be replaced by an alternate.
