Your employer cannot terminate you for serving on a jury. Serving as a juror is a critical civic duty in our justice system. When summoned, you play a vital role in upholding the constitutional right to a trial by jury, an aspect that is part of the building blocks of the United States. Much so the case that failing to appear for jury duty can result in penalties and legal consequences in not only the state of Texas but throughout the nation.
In order to better understand your rights and obligations as an upholding US citizen, our team of well-versed personal injury attorneys have prepared this article which will address what can happen if you miss jury duty, while also providing you with guidance on eligibility and proper procedures.
Is Jury Duty Mandatory in Texas?
Yes, jury duty is mandatory in the state of Texas. The right to a trial by an impartial jury is fundamental to the American system of justice. As citizens, we have a civic obligation to participate when called upon for jury service. Jury duty allows citizens to be directly involved in the legal process and ensures that legal matters are judged in accordance with community standards.
Eligibility for Jury Service in Texas
To be eligible for jury service in Texas, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a resident of the county in which you are summoned
- Be qualified to vote in the county (though you don’t have to be registered)
- Be of sound mind and good moral character
- Be able to read and write English
- Not have served as a juror in the previous required time period
- Not be under indictment or legal accusation for misdemeanor, theft, or felony
Additionally, you may be exempt from jury service if:
- You are over 75 years old
- You have legal custody of a child under 12 without adequate supervision
- You are a student
- You are an employee of the legislative branch
- You served as a petit juror in the county in the past 24-36 months
- You are the primary caretaker of someone who cannot care for themselves
- You are on active military duty deployed outside your county
What Happens if I Get Summoned to a Jury?
Though certain states may have different procedures, those that are summoned by the summoned potential jurors should typically expect:
- To receive a jury summons in the mail with reporting instructions.
- To complete the enclosed juror questionnaire about your qualifications.
- To mail back the completed questionnaire or bring it when you report.
- To appear for jury service on the date and location specified.
- To participate in the voir dire process where attorneys question prospective jurors.
It is important to note that some counties in Texas allow individuals to complete the questionnaire online via “I-Jury.” Also, If selected to serve on a jury, you should expect to receive final instructions from the judge presiding over the case assigned to you.
What Happens If You Don’t Show Up for Jury Duty?
Ignoring a jury summons can result in serious legal penalties in Texas:
- You can be fined from $100 to $1,000 for failing to answer the summons.
- If you fail to attend court without a reasonable excuse, you can be fined $100 to $500.
- Filing a false claim of exemption from jury service can also result in fines.
- In rare cases of continued non-compliance, you can be charged with contempt of court and face potential jail time of 3 days to 6 months.
It’s crucial to respond to a jury summons appropriately, request an exemption if qualified, or be excused for a legitimate reason by the judge. Remember: disregarding your civic duty can have potential legal and financial consequences.
a jury. It is illegal under Texas law for an employer to fire, threaten to fire, or penalize an employee for performing jury duty. Employers who violate this can face contempt of court sanctions and be required to pay damages to the employee.
However, your employer is not required to pay your wages for the time spent on jury duty. You are protected from retaliation, but not compensated by your employer while serving as a juror.
Compensation for Jury Service
All counties in Texas must pay jurors for their service, with compensation ranging from:
- Minimum of $6 per day
- Up to a maximum of $50 per day
Additionally, counties can opt to provide other forms of reimbursement such as:
- Free Public Transportation
- Mileage or Transportation Costs
- Free Parking
- Childcare Facilities
- Free Meals
Jurors also have the opportunity to voluntarily donate their jury pay to approved charitable causes such as:
- Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund
- County Child Welfare Board
- Local family violence shelters
- Other programs as approved by the county commissioners’ court.
Have You Been Requested for Jury Duty and Have Questions?
If you have been summoned for jury duty in Texas and need guidance on your rights, and responsibilities or have other questions, there should be an information number you can call listed on the summons and they will be happy to assist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jury Duty in Texas
What is the best excuse for jury duty in Texas?
There is no one “best” excuse – judges evaluate each situation individually. Legitimate reasons include student status, recent prior service, being over 75, childcare issues, disability, or inability to comprehend English. The summons will have exemption instructions.
Who pays the jury fee in Texas?
The county pays jurors a minimum of $6 up to $50 per day of service and may provide additional expense reimbursements.
What to wear to jury duty in Texas?
Business casual attire that is neat, clean, and shows respect for the court process is recommended. Some courts may restrict certain very casual items like shorts, sleeveless shirts, sandals, etc.