Jury Duty Once you submit the form, check your email a few minutes later to ensure you received a confirmation copy. Not have been under indictment or other legal accusation of a misdemeanor theft or any felony charge. Unlike a grand jury, a preliminary hearing is usually open to the public and involves lawyers on both sides and a judge (not so with grand juries which only involve the jurors and the prosecutor). This lets you know your form was transmitted properly. Provide the status of your assignment when you call in using the automated system, and. Rely on DoNotPay To Find Out! It encourages witnesses to speak freely and without fear of retaliation. If no trials are available that fit your schedule you can be given a 90 day postponement. We have helped over 300,000 people with their problems. You can respond to a summons one of two ways: This depends on whether you fail to respond to a summons or fail to report to court as assigned. Also, you should dress comfortably because you may be in the courthouse for the entire day. Also, try to keep an open mind about your jury service and remember that you are playing an essential role in our justice system. Box 679003, Austin, TX 78767. What do I do? Firms, FindLaws team of legal writers and attorneys, Expungement Handbook - Procedures and Law. Jury service is one of the most important civic duties you can perform. With DoNotPay by your side, you will never have to worry about how youll cover your utility bills or property taxes again. Austin-Travis County's COVID-19 Community Level is currently Low. The request should be accompanied by a letter from the health care provider verifying the medical problem and the need for you to be excused. In Do I have to complete this form? (This exemption does not apply to health care workers. Keep checking your email and your voicemail for any assignment updates. Do not provide any confidential information to these callers. You will need to check with your local courthouse regarding special amenities. If we cant make the match, you might get another summons. Like what you see? When Duty CallsHow Long Is Grand Jury Duty? Approximately 20% of prospective jurors are selected for trials. If you have already responded to a summons and received an assignment to a specific court, then failure to report to the courtroom is a serious matter for which you can be fined. You will need to be fair, impartial, and be willing to make decisions that are not based on your personal feelings and biases. You need to contact the judge or the court to be excused on this basis. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, pleasecontact an attorney in your area. Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer, Defense attorneys can help protect your rights, A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties. Texas Jury Duty Still not sure? WebIf you are selected to serve on a jury, the judge will tell you how long your trial is expected to last. ), Have served as a petit juror in the county during the 24-month period prior to the date you are required to appear for this summons. We have helped over 300,000 people with their problems. We recommend leaving knives and other pointed objects behind as these are not allowed to be brought into the courthouse. Please try again. 28. If you are assigned to the Travis County courthouse complex, please review your letter which contains parking information. In case of an emergency, your family may contacta jury administratoror a member of the clerks office. Contact us. not have been convicted of, or be under indictment or other legal accusation for, misdemeanor theft or a felony.